Chapter 2 Lesson 4 Cell in its environment

Front

What is the function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is selectively permeable, controlling what enters and leaves the cell.

Front

Define homeostasis in the context of cellular function.

Back

Homeostasis is the process by which a cell regulates its internal environment to maintain stable, constant conditions necessary for survival.

Front

What happens to a cell placed in a hypertonic solution, such as salt water?

Back

The cell will lose water and shrink due to osmosis.

Front

What is the difference between active transport and passive transport?

Back

Active transport requires energy to move molecules against their concentration gradient, while passive transport does not require energy and moves molecules from high to low concentration.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

Proteins in the cell membrane assist in transport, act as receptors, and provide structural support.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

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

Front

Explain the term 'selectively permeable'.

Back

Selectively permeable refers to a membrane that allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others.

Front

What is the significance of concentration gradients in cellular transport?

Back

Concentration gradients drive the movement of substances across membranes, influencing processes like diffusion and osmosis.

Front

How do cells use energy in active transport?

Back

Cells use energy, often in the form of ATP, to move substances against their concentration gradient during active transport.

Front

What is the impact of a hypotonic solution on a cell?

Back

In a hypotonic solution, a cell will gain water and may swell or burst due to the influx of water.