Cell Membrane Review

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

The primary function of the cell membrane is to protect the cell and regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Front

Define active transport in the context of cell membranes.

Back

Active transport is the process by which molecules move across the cell membrane from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration, using energy (ATP) and specific transport proteins.

Front

What is passive transport and how does it differ from active transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of molecules across the cell membrane without the use of energy, occurring from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration. In contrast, active transport requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient.

Front

What are the three types of passive transport?

Back

The three types of passive transport are diffusion, osmosis, and facilitated diffusion.

Front

Explain the process of diffusion.

Back

Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Front

What is osmosis and how is it related to water movement?

Back

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

Front

What role do channel proteins play in facilitated diffusion?

Back

Channel proteins provide a passageway for large or polar molecules to move across the cell membrane during facilitated diffusion.

Front

What is the fluid mosaic model of the cell membrane?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane as a dynamic structure composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that can move laterally, allowing for flexibility and fluidity.

Front

What is the significance of the plasma membrane in cellular communication?

Back

The plasma membrane contains receptors that allow cells to communicate with each other and respond to external signals, playing a crucial role in cellular signaling.

Front

How do pumps function in active transport?

Back

Pumps are specialized proteins that use energy (usually from ATP) to move ions or molecules against their concentration gradient across the cell membrane.