AP Biology Unit 2: Cells, Membranes and Transport

Front

What is the role of phospholipids in the cell membrane?

Back

Phospholipids form the basic structure of the cell membrane, creating a bilayer that provides a barrier to most water-soluble substances.

Front

How does the presence of double bonds in phospholipid tails affect membrane fluidity?

Back

Double bonds create kinks in the phospholipid tails, preventing them from packing tightly together, which increases membrane fluidity.

Front

What is the primary function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?

Back

The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is responsible for synthesizing lipids and detoxifying certain chemicals.

Front

Which organelle is known as the powerhouse of the cell?

Back

The mitochondrion is known as the powerhouse of the cell because it is the primary site of ATP synthesis.

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid consists of a glycerol backbone, a phosphate group, and two fatty acid tails.

Front

What role does cholesterol play in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the cell membrane and maintain its fluidity.

Front

What is the significance of membrane fluidity for cell function?

Back

Membrane fluidity is crucial for the movement of proteins and lipids within the membrane, allowing for cell signaling and transport.

Front

How do integral proteins differ from peripheral proteins in the cell membrane?

Back

Integral proteins span the membrane and are involved in transport and communication, while peripheral proteins are attached to the surface and play roles in signaling and maintaining the cell's shape.

Front

What is the function of the rough endoplasmic reticulum?

Back

The rough endoplasmic reticulum is involved in the synthesis of proteins that are either secreted from the cell or incorporated into the cell membrane.

Front

What is the fluid mosaic model of the cell membrane?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane as a dynamic and flexible structure with various proteins embedded in or attached to a fluid lipid bilayer.