Cell Membrane and Transport

Front

What is a cell membrane?

Back

A 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 is a hypotonic solution?

Back

A hypotonic solution has a lower concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, causing water to enter the cell and potentially leading to cell swelling or bursting.

Front

What is a hypertonic solution?

Back

A hypertonic solution has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cell, causing water to leave the cell and leading to cell shrinkage.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the process by which molecules spread from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration until equilibrium is reached.

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

What is facilitated diffusion?

Back

Facilitated diffusion is the process of passive transport of molecules across a cell membrane via specific transmembrane integral proteins.

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 (ATP).

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

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

Front

What is a concentration gradient?

Back

A concentration gradient is the difference in the concentration of a substance across a space, which drives the movement of substances during diffusion.