Cell Membrane

Front

What is the hydrophobic region of the cell membrane?

Back

The hydrophobic region of the cell membrane refers to the part of the membrane that repels water, primarily composed of fatty acid tails of phospholipids.

Front

What does 'selectively permeable' mean?

Back

'Selectively permeable' means that a membrane allows certain substances to pass through while blocking others, also known as 'semipermeable'.

Front

What role does cholesterol play in the plasma membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to maintain fluidity in the plasma membrane and prevents the fatty acid tails from sticking together.

Front

What are the main components of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is primarily made of lipids, specifically phospholipids, along with proteins and carbohydrates.

Front

What is the primary function of the plasma membrane?

Back

The primary function of the plasma membrane is to regulate what enters and leaves the cell.

Front

Define phospholipid.

Back

A phospholipid is a type of lipid molecule that is a major component of cell membranes, consisting of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) 'tails'.

Front

What is the fluid mosaic model?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of the cell membrane as a mosaic of various proteins that float in or on the fluid lipid bilayer, allowing for flexibility and movement.

Front

What are membrane proteins?

Back

Membrane proteins are proteins that are either partially or fully embedded in the cell membrane, playing roles in transport, communication, and structural support.

Front

What is the significance of carbohydrate chains in the cell membrane?

Back

Carbohydrate chains attached to proteins and lipids on the cell membrane surface play a key role in cell recognition and signaling.

Front

Explain the term 'lipid bilayer'.

Back

The lipid bilayer is a double layer of phospholipids that makes up the cell membrane, with hydrophilic heads facing outward and hydrophobic tails facing inward.