Cell Membrane

Front

What role does cholesterol play in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol strengthens and stabilizes the cell membrane.

Front

What are the two main functions of proteins in the cell membrane?

Back

1.) They act like gatekeepers, allowing only certain substances to enter. 2.) They serve as enzyme receptors embedded in the membrane.

Front

What does hydrophilic mean?

Back

Hydrophilic means water-loving.

Front

Which of the following is NOT a component of the cell membrane: Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids?

Back

Nucleic Acids are NOT part of the cell membrane.

Front

What does it mean for a membrane to be selectively permeable?

Back

It means that some molecules can cross the membrane while others cannot.

Front

What are the main components of the cell membrane?

Back

The main components are phospholipids, proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.

Front

How do proteins function as gatekeepers in the cell membrane?

Back

Proteins function as gatekeepers by forming channels or carriers that selectively allow certain molecules to pass through the membrane.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model in understanding the cell membrane?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane as a flexible structure with various proteins embedded in or attached to a bilayer of phospholipids, allowing for movement and interaction.

Front

What is the difference between passive and active transport across the cell membrane?

Back

Passive transport does not require energy and moves substances down their concentration gradient, while active transport requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient.