Cell Transport FLASHCARD

Front

What is the structure of a cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is primarily composed of a double layer of phospholipids, along with proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates that aid in cell communication and transport.

Front

What is the function of channel and pump proteins in the cell membrane?

Back

Channel and pump proteins facilitate the movement of ions and molecules across the cell membrane, either passively or actively, depending on the concentration gradient.

Front

What is passive transport?

Back

Passive transport is the movement of particles across the cell membrane from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration without the use of energy.

Front

What is active transport?

Back

Active transport is the movement of particles against their concentration gradient, from low to high concentration, requiring energy (ATP) to occur.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the diffusion of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

Front

What is exocytosis?

Back

Exocytosis is the process by which a cell transports molecules out of the cell by enclosing them in a vesicle that fuses with the cell membrane.

Front

What is endocytosis?

Back

Endocytosis is the process by which a cell engulfs material from the outside environment, forming a vesicle to bring it into the cell.

Front

What is homeostasis in the context of cell transport?

Back

Homeostasis is the ability of a cell to maintain stable internal conditions, such as water and nutrient levels, despite changes in the external environment.

Front

What role do marker molecules play in cell membranes?

Back

Marker molecules, often glycoproteins, help in cell recognition and communication, allowing cells to identify and interact with each other.

Front

What is the difference between diffusion and facilitated diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the passive movement of molecules from high to low concentration, while facilitated diffusion involves specific transport proteins to help move larger or polar molecules across the membrane.