Cell Membrane and Transport Flashcard

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

To regulate what enters and leaves the cell, maintaining homeostasis.

Front

What is a hypertonic solution?

Back

A solution that has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, causing the cell to shrink.

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

Molecules that make up the cell membrane, consisting of hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

They form channels and pumps that facilitate the transport of substances across the membrane.

Front

Define homeostasis in the context of cells.

Back

The ability of a cell to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypotonic solution?

Back

The cell will swell as water enters due to a lower concentration of solutes outside.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model?

Back

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

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

The movement of substances across the cell membrane without the use of energy, such as diffusion and osmosis.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

The movement of substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy, often in the form of ATP.

Front

What is the function of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

To provide stability and fluidity to the membrane, preventing it from becoming too rigid.