Membranes and Cell Transport

Front

What is the main function of the cell membrane?

Back

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

Front

Define homeostasis.

Back

Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Front

What are lipids and their role in the cell membrane?

Back

Lipids are organic molecules that form the basic structure of the cell membrane, creating a bilayer that is hydrophobic and helps to maintain the integrity of the cell.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Front

Explain the term 'selectively permeable'.

Back

Selectively permeable refers to a property of cell membranes that allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

Active transport is the movement of molecules across a cell membrane from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration, requiring energy.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

Front

Define exocytosis.

Back

Exocytosis is the process by which a cell expels materials in vesicles that fuse with the cell membrane.

Front

What is endocytosis?

Back

Endocytosis is the process by which cells take in substances by engulfing them in a vesicle.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

Proteins in the cell membrane assist in transport, act as receptors, and provide structural support.