Cell Membrane

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

To protect the cell and regulate what enters and exits.

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

Molecules that make up the cell membrane, consisting of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.

Front

Define homeostasis.

Back

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

Front

What is active transport?

Back

The movement of substances across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

The movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy, typically down their concentration gradient.

Front

What role do integral proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

They span the membrane and assist in the transport of substances across the membrane.

Front

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

Back

They play a key role in cell recognition and communication.

Front

What is the fluid mosaic model?

Back

A model that describes the structure of the cell membrane as a mosaic of various proteins that float in or on the fluid lipid bilayer.

Front

What is the difference between diffusion and osmosis?

Back

Diffusion is the movement of molecules from high to low concentration, while osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane.

Front

What is a concentration gradient?

Back

A difference in the concentration of a substance across a space.