324 Cell Membrane and Transport Assessment 2024 Nelson

Front

What is a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid is a type of lipid molecule that is a major component of cell membranes, consisting of two fatty acids, a glycerol unit, and a phosphate group.

Front

What is the role of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the structure of the cell membrane, making it less permeable to very small water-soluble molecules that might otherwise pass freely through.

Front

What is the difference between active transport and passive transport?

Back

Active transport requires energy (ATP) to move substances against their concentration gradient, while passive transport does not require energy and moves substances along their concentration gradient.

Front

What does it mean for a membrane to be selectively permeable?

Back

A selectively permeable membrane allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others, maintaining the internal environment of the cell.

Front

What is equilibrium in the context of cell membranes?

Back

Equilibrium occurs when the concentration of particles inside the cell is equal to the concentration of particles outside the cell, resulting in no net movement of substances.

Front

What is facilitated diffusion?

Back

Facilitated diffusion is a type of passive transport that uses transport proteins to help move substances across the cell membrane without the use of energy.

Front

What are transport proteins?

Back

Transport proteins are proteins that assist in the movement of ions and molecules across the cell membrane, either through passive or active transport.

Front

What is the function of the phospholipid bilayer?

Back

The phospholipid bilayer forms the fundamental structure of the cell membrane, providing a barrier that separates the interior of the cell from the external environment.

Front

What is the significance of the fluid mosaic model?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of cell membranes as a mosaic of various components (lipids, proteins, carbohydrates) that move fluidly, allowing for flexibility and functionality.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

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