Cell Transport, Membranes, Osmosis, and Diffusion

Front

What does it mean for a cell membrane to be selectively permeable?

Back

It means that certain things can enter while others cannot.

Front

What is the primary composition of a cell membrane?

Back

A phospholipid bilayer.

Front

What does hydrophilic mean?

Back

Water-loving.

Front

Which type of molecules can move through a cell membrane through simple/passive diffusion?

Back

Very small or non-polar molecules.

Front

What is a hypotonic solution?

Back

A solution where the concentration of solutes is lower outside the cell than inside, causing water to enter the cell.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

The cell loses water and may shrivel.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

The movement of water across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

The movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

They assist in transporting substances across the membrane and can act as receptors.

Front

What is the function of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

It helps to maintain membrane fluidity and stability.