Cell Membrane Structure and Function

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane regulates what enters and exits the cell, providing protection and support.

Front

Define phospholipid.

Back

A phospholipid is a molecule that makes up the cell membrane, consisting of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) 'tails'.

Front

What role do transport proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

Transport proteins facilitate the movement of larger and polar molecules across the cell membrane.

Front

What is a glycoprotein?

Back

A glycoprotein is a protein that has carbohydrate chains attached to it, playing a key role in cell recognition and signaling.

Front

Explain the term 'cholesterol' in the context of cell membranes.

Back

Cholesterol is a lipid that helps to stabilize the fluidity of the cell membrane, making it less permeable to very small water-soluble molecules.

Front

What are the two main types of macromolecules found in the cell membrane?

Back

The two main types of macromolecules in the cell membrane are lipids and proteins.

Front

What is the significance of the hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions of phospholipids?

Back

The hydrophilic heads face outward towards the water inside and outside the cell, while the hydrophobic tails face inward, creating a bilayer that forms the cell membrane.

Front

Identify the part of the cell membrane that is involved in cell signaling.

Back

Glycoproteins are involved in cell signaling and recognition.

Front

What is the function of carbohydrates in the cell membrane?

Back

Carbohydrates serve as recognition sites for cell communication and interaction.

Front

What is the nonpolar region of the cell membrane?

Back

The nonpolar region of the cell membrane consists of the hydrophobic tails of phospholipids.