Plasma Membrane

Front

What determines the direction that carbon dioxide and oxygen molecules move across a plasma membrane?

Back

The concentration gradient across the plasma membrane.

Front

What provides structure for a plasma membrane?

Back

The arrangement of the hydrophobic and hydrophilic ends of the phospholipids.

Front

What is a primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

The transport of molecules into and out of the cell through osmosis and diffusion.

Front

Which cell structure is responsible for the functions described in a list of membrane-related activities?

Back

Plasma membrane.

Front

What action is prevented by the plasma membrane?

Back

Unlimited flow of water into or out of the cell.

Front

Define plasma membrane.

Back

A biological membrane that separates and protects the interior of all cells from the outside environment.

Front

What are phospholipids?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of cholesterol in the plasma membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the fluidity of the membrane.

Front

What is selective permeability?

Back

The ability of the plasma membrane to allow certain molecules to pass while blocking others.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

The movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.