Cell Membrane Structure

Front

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

Back

To protect the cell and regulate what enters and exits.

Front

Describe the structure of the phospholipid bilayer.

Back

It consists of two layers of phospholipids with hydrophilic heads facing outward and hydrophobic tails facing inward.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

They form channels and pumps that facilitate the transport of substances across the membrane.

Front

Define hydrophobic.

Back

Water-fearing; refers to molecules that do not interact well with water.

Front

What is the significance of the term 'amphipathic' in relation to phospholipids?

Back

Amphipathic molecules have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions, allowing them to form bilayers.

Front

Explain the fluid mosaic model of the cell membrane.

Back

It 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 role of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the membrane's fluidity and structure.

Front

How do glycoproteins contribute to cell membrane function?

Back

Glycoproteins serve as recognition sites for cell signaling and communication.

Front

What is the difference between passive and active transport across the cell membrane?

Back

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

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.