Cell Membrane Structure and Function

What is the purpose of soaking a raw egg in vinegar for an osmosis experiment?

• To cook the egg and make it easier to handle.

• To remove the hard shell, leaving a membrane that acts like a cell membrane.

• To make the egg absorb vinegar and expand.

• To harden the egg yolk for better observation.

What does it mean for a cell membrane to be "semi-permeable"?

• It allows all substances to pass through freely.

• It blocks all substances from entering or leaving the cell.

• It allows some materials to pass through, but not others.

• It changes its permeability based on the cell's size.

Why are cells typically very small?

• Smaller cells require less energy to function.

• Smaller cells have a more favorable surface area to volume ratio for efficient transport.

• Larger cells are more prone to damage and breaking apart.

• Small cells can reproduce faster than large cells.

In the Fluid Mosaic Model of the cell membrane, what does the term "fluid" refer to?

• The membrane is mostly made of water.

• The components of the membrane are constantly moving.

• The membrane can easily change its shape to fit different cells.

• The membrane allows only liquids to pass through.

What are the characteristics of a phospholipid molecule?

• It has a nonpolar head and a polar tail.

• It has a polar head and a nonpolar tail.

• Both its head and tail are polar.

• Both its head and tail are nonpolar.

How do phospholipids arrange themselves to form a cell membrane?

• With their nonpolar heads facing the watery environment.

• With their polar tails facing the watery environment.

• With their nonpolar tails facing inward, away from water.

• Randomly, without a specific orientation.

What is the main function of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

• To transport molecules across the membrane.

• To provide structural support and maintain fluidity.

• To act as a receptor for cell signaling.

• To produce energy for the cell.

What is the primary difference between integral and peripheral proteins in a cell membrane?

• Integral proteins are only found on the outer surface, while peripheral proteins span the entire membrane.

• Integral proteins are loosely attached to the membrane, while peripheral proteins are embedded within it.

• Integral proteins span the entire membrane, while peripheral proteins are found on the surface.

• Integral proteins are involved in cell recognition, while peripheral proteins are involved in transport.