Cell Membrane

Front

What role does cholesterol play in the plasma membrane?

Back

Cholesterol prevents the fatty acid tails of phospholipids from sticking together, maintaining membrane fluidity.

Front

What are the main components that form channels and pumps in the phospholipid bilayer?

Back

Proteins form the channels and pumps in the phospholipid bilayer.

Front

What is the primary function of the plasma membrane?

Back

The primary function of the plasma membrane is to regulate what enters and leaves the cell.

Front

What is another term for 'selectively permeable'?

Back

Semipermeable.

Front

What part of the plasma membrane is responsible for cell recognition?

Back

Glycoproteins are responsible for cell recognition.

Front

What is the structure of the plasma membrane?

Back

The plasma membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.

Front

How do proteins contribute to the function of the plasma membrane?

Back

Proteins facilitate transport, act as receptors, and provide structural support in the plasma membrane.

Front

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

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the plasma membrane as a dynamic structure with various proteins floating in or on the fluid lipid bilayer.

Front

What is the difference between passive and active transport across the plasma 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.

Front

What is osmosis and how does it relate to the plasma membrane?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane, crucial for maintaining cell homeostasis.