CHECKPOINT: Cell Membrane Structure and Function

Front

What is the primary function of carbohydrate chains in the cell membrane?

Back

Carbohydrate chains identify and communicate with the extracellular environment.

Front

What do the purple regions in a cell membrane diagram typically represent?

Back

Proteins.

Front

What role does cholesterol play in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol prevents phospholipids from packing tightly together when cold and prevents them from separating during warm temperatures.

Front

Which part of the plasma membrane is responsible for cell recognition?

Back

The carbohydrate chains attached to proteins and lipids.

Front

What are the two parts of a phospholipid called?

Back

Hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tail.

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.

Front

How do proteins function in the cell membrane?

Back

Proteins serve as channels, receptors, and enzymes, facilitating communication and transport across the membrane.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane as a flexible structure with various proteins embedded in or attached to a fluid phospholipid bilayer.

Front

What is the role of cholesterol in maintaining membrane fluidity?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the membrane's fluidity, making it less permeable to very small water-soluble molecules that might otherwise pass freely through.

Front

What are glycolipids and what is their function?

Back

Glycolipids are lipids with carbohydrate chains that play a role in cell recognition and signaling.