Cell Membrane and Homeostasis

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

Phospholipids are molecules that make up the cell membrane, consisting of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.

Front

What is the structure of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is composed of a double layer of phospholipids, with proteins and carbohydrates embedded within it.

Front

What does 'homeostasis' mean?

Back

Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Front

Why do phospholipids arrange themselves in a bilayer?

Back

Phospholipids arrange in a bilayer to protect their hydrophobic tails from water, while their hydrophilic heads face the aqueous environment.

Front

What is selective permeability?

Back

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

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 function of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the cell membrane's fluidity, making it less permeable to very small water-soluble molecules.

Front

How does the cell membrane help in communication?

Back

The cell membrane contains receptors that allow cells to receive signals from other cells, facilitating communication.

Front

What is the difference between passive and active transport?

Back

Passive transport does not require energy to move substances across the membrane, while active transport requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

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