Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane)

Front

What does 'hydrophilic' mean?

Back

Water loving, associates with water.

Front

Which part of a phospholipid is HYDROPHOBIC?

Back

The lipid 'tails'.

Front

Which part of a phospholipid is HYDROPHILIC?

Back

The phosphate 'head'.

Front

What is the function of cholesterol in a plasma membrane?

Back

To control the effect of temperature changes.

Front

Which type of biological macromolecule is the main component of the plasma membrane?

Back

Lipid.

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic 'head' and two hydrophobic 'tails'.

Front

What role do proteins play in the plasma membrane?

Back

Proteins assist in transport, communication, and structural support.

Front

What is the fluid mosaic model?

Back

A model that describes the plasma membrane as a flexible layer made of lipid molecules with embedded proteins.

Front

What is selective permeability?

Back

The ability of the plasma membrane to allow certain substances to pass while blocking others.

Front

What are glycoproteins?

Back

Proteins with carbohydrate chains that play a role in cell recognition and signaling.