Cell Membrane Structure & Function

Front

What is the function of the phospholipid bilayer of the cell membrane?

Back

The phospholipid bilayer allows small, non-polar molecules to pass through the cell membrane.

Front

What is a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid is a molecule that makes up the cell membrane, consisting of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) 'tails'.

Front

What role do carbohydrates play in the cell membrane?

Back

Carbohydrates identify the cell and allow for cell-to-cell communication.

Front

What is the function of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol stabilizes the fluidity of the cell membrane.

Front

What is the structure of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.

Front

What are integral proteins?

Back

Integral proteins are proteins that span the entire membrane and are involved in transporting substances across the membrane.

Front

What are peripheral proteins?

Back

Peripheral proteins are proteins that are attached to the exterior or interior surfaces of the membrane and play roles in signaling and maintaining the cell's shape.

Front

What is selective permeability?

Back

Selective permeability is the property of the cell membrane that allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others.

Front

What is the fluid mosaic model?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane as a dynamic and flexible structure with various proteins floating in or on the fluid lipid bilayer.

Front

What is diffusion?

Back

Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.