Cell Membrane and Transport

Front

What is a cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is a biological membrane that separates and protects the interior of all cells from the outside environment. It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.

Front

Define isotonic solution.

Back

An isotonic solution is one where the concentration of solutes is the same inside and outside the cell, resulting in no net movement of water.

Front

What happens to a cell in a hypertonic solution?

Back

In a hypertonic solution, water moves out of the cell, causing it to shrink or crenate.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the movement of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Front

Define hypotonic solution.

Back

A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, leading to water entering the cell and potentially causing it to swell or burst.

Front

What is facilitated diffusion?

Back

Facilitated diffusion is a process by which substances move across cell membranes with the assistance of special proteins, without the use of energy.

Front

What is endocytosis?

Back

Endocytosis is the process by which cells engulf external substances, bringing them into the cell in a vesicle.

Front

What is exocytosis?

Back

Exocytosis is the process by which cells expel materials in vesicles, releasing them outside the cell.

Front

What is the role of sodium chloride in human red blood cells?

Back

Sodium chloride helps maintain osmotic balance and proper cell function within red blood cells.

Front

What occurs when a red blood cell is placed in a 3.5% sodium chloride solution?

Back

The red blood cell will shrink due to the hypertonic nature of the solution, causing water to leave the cell.