324 Cell Membrane and Transport Test

Front

What is a phospholipid bilayer?

Back

A phospholipid bilayer is a double layer of phospholipids that makes up the cell membrane, providing a barrier that separates the inside of the cell from the outside environment.

Front

What is the function of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol strengthens and stabilizes the cell membrane, making it less permeable to very small water-soluble molecules that might otherwise pass freely through.

Front

What are the main components of the cell membrane?

Back

The main components of the cell membrane are phospholipids, cholesterol, proteins, and carbohydrates.

Front

What does 'bilayer' mean in the context of the cell membrane?

Back

'Bilayer' means two layers, referring to the two layers of phospholipids that form the cell membrane.

Front

What role do carrier or transport proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

Carrier or transport proteins facilitate the movement of substances across the cell membrane, allowing specific molecules to enter or exit the cell.

Front

What is the structure of a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) 'tails', which allows it to form bilayers in water.

Front

How do carbohydrates function in the cell membrane?

Back

Carbohydrates are attached to proteins and lipids on the extracellular surface of the cell membrane, playing a key role in cell recognition and signaling.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between passive and active transport?

Back

Passive transport does not require energy and moves substances down their concentration gradient, while active transport requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.