Cell membrane and Diffusion

Front

What is the primary function of the plasma membrane?

Back

To regulate what enters and leaves the cell.

Front

What is a phospholipid?

Back

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

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

The movement of particles across a cell membrane without the use of energy, moving with the concentration gradient.

Front

Define equilibrium in the context of cell biology.

Back

A state where the concentration of substances is equal inside and outside the cell, also known as homeostasis.

Front

What role do integral proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

They span the membrane and help transport substances across the membrane.

Front

What is the significance of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the membrane's fluidity and structure.

Front

What are carbohydrate chains in the context of the cell membrane?

Back

They are attached to proteins and lipids on the extracellular surface of the membrane and play a role in cell recognition and signaling.

Front

What does 'selectively permeable' mean regarding the cell membrane?

Back

It means that the membrane allows certain substances to pass while blocking others.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

The process by which molecules spread from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.