Plasma Membrane Review

Front

What is the plasma membrane?

Back

The plasma membrane is a biological membrane that separates and protects the interior of all cells from the external environment.

Front

What types of cells have a plasma membrane?

Back

All cells, including prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, have a plasma membrane.

Front

What macromolecule primarily makes up the plasma membrane?

Back

Lipids, specifically phospholipids, make up the majority of the plasma membrane.

Front

What is the function of cholesterol in the plasma membrane?

Back

Cholesterol strengthens the plasma membrane and prevents the phospholipid tails from sticking together.

Front

What does 'bi' in phospholipid bilayer refer to?

Back

'Bi' means 'two', indicating that the bilayer consists of two layers of phospholipids.

Front

What are the two regions of a phospholipid?

Back

Phospholipids have a hydrophilic (polar) head and two hydrophobic (nonpolar) fatty acid tails.

Front

What is the nonpolar portion of a phospholipid made of?

Back

The nonpolar portion of a phospholipid is made of fatty acids.

Front

What role do proteins play in the plasma membrane?

Back

Proteins in the plasma membrane assist with transport, communication, and structural support.

Front

What are carbohydrate chains in the plasma membrane used for?

Back

Carbohydrate chains are used for cell recognition and signaling.

Front

What is the fluid mosaic model?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the plasma membrane as a flexible structure with various proteins embedded in or attached to a fluid lipid bilayer.