Cell Membrane & Cell Transport

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane regulates what enters and exits the cell, providing protection and support.

Front

Define osmosis.

Back

Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Front

What is the difference between hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances?

Back

Hydrophilic substances are attracted to water (water-loving), while hydrophobic substances repel water (water-fearing).

Front

What are the two main components of a phospholipid?

Back

The two main components of a phospholipid are the hydrophilic head and the hydrophobic tail.

Front

What types of molecules can easily diffuse through the phospholipid bilayer?

Back

Small nonpolar molecules, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, can easily diffuse through the phospholipid bilayer.

Front

What is facilitated diffusion?

Back

Facilitated diffusion is the process by which molecules pass through the cell membrane via special proteins without the use of energy.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

Proteins in the cell membrane assist in transport, act as receptors, and provide structural support.

Front

Explain the concept of selective permeability.

Back

Selective permeability is the property of the cell membrane that allows certain substances to pass while blocking others.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of the cell membrane as a mosaic of various proteins that float in or on the fluid lipid bilayer.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

In a hypertonic solution, water moves out of the cell, causing it to shrink.