What is the Primary Role of the Cell Membrane? Quiz & Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What is the main function of the cell membrane?

To regulate the movement of materials in and out of the cell (correct)

To provide structural support to the cell

To store genetic information

To facilitate cellular respiration

Which of the following is NOT a component of the cell membrane?

Nucleic acids (correct)

Proteins

Phospholipids

Carbohydrates

What is the fluid mosaic model used to explain?

The process of cell division

The structure of the nucleus

The structure and properties of the cell membrane (correct)

The movement of materials across the cell membrane

Which of the following is NOT a function of the cell membrane?

Storing genetic information Signup and view all the answers

What is the structure of the cell membrane composed of?

A double layer of phospholipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

To regulate the passage of materials into and out of the cell Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following molecules are found in the cell membrane?

Lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

To maintain the fluidity and flexibility of the membrane Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of integral proteins in the cell membrane?

To transport materials across the membrane Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the glycocalyx in the cell membrane?

To cushion the plasma membrane and aid in cell recognition Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of GLUT4 transport proteins in relation to glucose regulation?

They allow glucose to diffuse into the cell when blood glucose levels are high. Signup and view all the answers

How does the cell membrane act as a transducer?

It converts chemical signals in the environment to changes in protein activation inside the cell. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of growth hormone in cell signaling?

It binds to receptors on the cell membrane to promote cell growth and division. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of integral proteins in the cell membrane in relation to cell movement and adhesion?

They bind to both internal components of the cell, such as the cytoskeleton, and external components like the extracellular matrix. Signup and view all the answers

According to the passage, what is the primary function of the cell membrane?

To regulate the movement of glucose into the cell based on energy needs. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cell Membrane Structure

The cell membrane is a thin, flexible barrier composed of two layers of phospholipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol.
The phospholipid bilayer is the main component, with hydrophobic tails facing inward and hydrophilic heads facing outward.
Cholesterol is present in the membrane, contributing to its flexibility and fluidity.

Functions of the Cell Membrane

The primary function is to separate the cell from its environment and regulate what enters and leaves the cell (selective permeability).
Maintains homeostasis by creating stable internal conditions despite changing external environments.
Regulates transport of materials, cellular movement, and adhesion.
Plays a crucial role in cell signaling and division.

Phospholipids

Amphipathic lipids with hydrophobic tails and hydrophilic heads.
Arranged in a bilayer, with tails facing inward and heads facing outward.
Contribute to the membrane's fluidity and selective permeability.

Proteins in the Cell Membrane

Two types: integral proteins (span the membrane) and peripheral proteins (attached to the outside).
Functions include:
- Cell signaling
- Anchoring cells to each other and the extracellular matrix
- Cell movement
- Transport of materials
- Enzymatic reactions
Transport proteins can act as pumps or channels to regulate material transport.
Enzymatic proteins can carry out chemical reactions, such as phosphorylation.

Carbohydrates in the Cell Membrane

Attached to the outside of the cell membrane as the glycocalyx.
Functions include:
- Cell recognition and identification
- Cellular adhesion to the extracellular matrix
- Cushioning the plasma membrane

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Description

Learn about the cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, which acts as a barrier regulating the passage of substances in and out of the cell. This quiz provides an overview of the structure and functions of the cell membrane.