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Questions and Answers
What is another name for the plasma membrane?
What is another name for the plasma membrane?
Which component of the phospholipid bilayer is described as hydrophilic?
Which component of the phospholipid bilayer is described as hydrophilic?
What role do transmembrane proteins play in the plasma membrane?
What role do transmembrane proteins play in the plasma membrane?
Which part of the phospholipid bilayer creates a barrier to water?
Which part of the phospholipid bilayer creates a barrier to water?
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What does the 'fluid' in the Fluid Mosaic Model refer to?
What does the 'fluid' in the Fluid Mosaic Model refer to?
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What is the function of glycolipids in the cell membrane?
What is the function of glycolipids in the cell membrane?
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Which description best defines the organization of the phospholipid bilayer?
Which description best defines the organization of the phospholipid bilayer?
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How do membrane lipids contribute to the structure of the cell membrane?
How do membrane lipids contribute to the structure of the cell membrane?
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Study Notes
Overview of Cell Structure
- Cells have three main structures: cytoplasm, plasma membrane, and genetic material.
The Plasma Membrane
- Defines the cell, separating its internal environment from the external surroundings.
- Also known as the phospholipid bilayer, consisting of two layers of phospholipids.
Phospholipid Bilayer Components
- Bilayer: "Bi" means two, referring to the two layers of phospholipids.
- Phospho: Refers to the phosphate group present.
- Lipid: Indicates that these molecules are fats.
Characteristics of Phospholipids
- Hydrophilic Head: Contains choline and phosphate; interacts with water.
- Hydrophobic Tail: Composed of fatty acid chains; avoids contact with water.
Function of the Bilayer
- The arrangement creates a barrier regulating the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
Fluid Mosaic Model
- Describes the cell membrane as flexible (Fluid) and structured with various components (Mosaic).
- Proteins within the bilayer are not fixed and can move freely.
Types of Membrane Components
- Glycolipids: Lipids with carbohydrate groups; serve as cell surface markers.
- Transmembrane Proteins: Span the lipid bilayer, facilitating transport of substances and communication.
- Interior Protein Network: Provides structural support and maintains the shape of the membrane.
- Cell Surface Markers: Include glycoproteins and glycolipids, crucial for self-recognition and identity.
- Transporters: Selectively allow specific substances to cross the membrane.
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Description
Explore the essential structures of cells in this quiz focused on the cell membrane. Learn about the plasma membrane's role as a boundary and its composition as a phospholipid bilayer. Test your knowledge of cell structures and their functions.
