3.3 Cell Membrane

Front

What are the hydrophobic and hydrophilic components of the cell membrane?

Back

The hydrophobic tails are located on the inside of the membrane, while the hydrophilic heads are on the outside.

Front

What happens to red blood cells when distilled water is introduced into the bloodstream?

Back

The red blood cells will swell because the distilled water is hypotonic compared to the cells.

Front

What model describes the structure of the cell membrane as flexible and composed of various components?

Back

The Fluid Mosaic Model.

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane serves as the protective outer layer that controls what enters and leaves the cell.

Front

What is the term for the process of cell 'eating' that is a form of endocytosis?

Back

Phagocytosis.

Front

What is the significance of the Fluid Mosaic Model in understanding cell membranes?

Back

It illustrates that the cell membrane is not static but rather dynamic, with various proteins and lipids moving within the layer.

Front

How does the concentration gradient affect the movement of substances across the cell membrane?

Back

Substances move from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration, a process known as diffusion.

Front

What is osmosis and how does it relate to cell membranes?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane, affecting cell volume and pressure.

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

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 gradient.