Cell Membrane Structure Quiz

Cell Membrane Components

• Integral proteins are crucial components embedded in the lipid bilayer, facilitating transport and communication across the membrane.
• Peripheral proteins are associated with the surface of the membrane and play roles in signaling and structural support.
• Cholesterol, carbohydrates, and phospholipids are essential components of the cell membrane, while cellulose is NOT part of the membrane structure.

Integral Proteins

• Integral proteins act as channels or carriers to assist in the transport of molecules across the membrane.
• They are involved in cell signaling, serving as receptors for hormones and neurotransmitters.

Peripheral Proteins

• Peripheral proteins provide structural support and maintain the cell shape by attaching to integral proteins or the cytoskeleton.
• They are also involved in signaling pathways, contributing to cellular communication.

Primary Function of Cell Membrane

• The primary function is to act as a selective barrier, regulating the entry and exit of substances to maintain homeostasis.

Membrane Transport Types

• Passive transport does not require energy and includes diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and osmosis.
• Diffusion movement relies on concentration gradients, moving substances from high to low concentration.
• Facilitated diffusion allows specific molecules to cross membranes with the aid of integral proteins.

Driving Forces and Laws

• The driving force in passive transport is the concentration gradient, causing substances to move toward areas of lower concentration.
• Fick's law describes the movement of substances from areas of high concentration to low concentration, highlighting that this net movement continues until equilibrium is achieved.

Types of Passive Transport

• Common types of passive transport include simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and osmosis.
• Active transport, which requires energy, is NOT a type of passive transport.