CHECKPOINT: Cell Membrane Structure and Function

Front

What forms the two layers of the cell membrane?

Back

Phospholipids.

Front

What lipid prevents phospholipids from packing tightly together when cold and prevents them from separating during warm temperatures?

Back

Cholesterol.

Front

What does it mean when a membrane is described as selectively (or semi) permeable?

Back

Some molecules can cross the membrane while others cannot.

Front

What do hydrophobic fatty acid tails represent in the cell membrane?

Back

They are part of the phospholipid structure that repels water.

Front

What macromolecule makes up the majority of the cell membrane?

Back

Phospholipids.

Front

What is the role of proteins in the cell membrane?

Back

They assist in transport, act as receptors, and provide structural support.

Front

What is the function of carbohydrates in the cell membrane?

Back

They are involved in cell recognition and signaling.

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

Back

It consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.

Front

How does cholesterol contribute to membrane fluidity?

Back

It stabilizes the membrane by preventing fatty acids from packing too closely together.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model?

Back

It describes the cell membrane as a flexible structure with various proteins embedded in or attached to a double layer of phospholipids.