Plasma Membrane Flashcard

Front

What is the structure of the plasma membrane?

Back

The plasma membrane consists of a phospholipid bilayer.

Front

What is the main component of the plasma membrane?

Back

Lipids are the main component of the plasma membrane.

Front

Can water pass through the phospholipid bilayer without protein assistance?

Back

False, water requires protein assistance to pass through the phospholipid bilayer.

Front

Are there particles that can move in and out of the phospholipid bilayer without needing a protein?

Back

True, some particles can pass through the phospholipid bilayer without protein assistance.

Front

What does 'hydrophilic' mean?

Back

Hydrophilic means water loving, and it associates with water.

Front

What does 'hydrophobic' mean?

Back

Hydrophobic means water fearing, and it does not associate with water.

Front

What role do proteins play in the plasma membrane?

Back

Proteins assist in transporting substances across the plasma membrane.

Front

What is the function of cholesterol in the plasma membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the fluidity of the plasma membrane.

Front

What are glycoproteins?

Back

Glycoproteins are proteins with carbohydrate chains attached, important for cell recognition.

Front

What is selective permeability?

Back

Selective permeability is the ability of the plasma membrane to allow certain substances to pass while blocking others.