AP Bio - Cells and Membranes

Front

What are microtubules and what structures do they make up?

Back

Microtubules are cylindrical structures made of tubulin proteins that provide structural support and shape to cells. They make up structures such as cilia, centrioles, and flagella, but not mitochondria.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, continuing until equilibrium is reached. It does not require ATP.

Front

What is the role of ATP in cellular transport?

Back

ATP provides the energy required for active transport processes, such as the movement of potassium ions into an animal cell against their concentration gradient.

Front

What is a semi-permeable membrane?

Back

A semi-permeable membrane allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others, facilitating selective transport.

Front

What is phagocytosis?

Back

Phagocytosis is a type of endocytosis where a cell engulfs large particles or microorganisms, such as bacteria, by wrapping around them with its membrane.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between active 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 are carrier proteins?

Back

Carrier proteins are membrane proteins that facilitate the transport of specific substances across a cell membrane, often involved in facilitated diffusion.

Front

What is dynamic equilibrium in the context of diffusion?

Back

Dynamic equilibrium occurs when the concentration of molecules is equal on both sides of a membrane, resulting in no net movement of molecules.

Front

What is the function of cilia?

Back

Cilia are hair-like structures that extend from the surface of some cells and are involved in movement, either moving the cell itself or moving substances along the cell surface.