10 Questions
What is the primary function of the plasma membrane?
To regulate the entrance and exit of molecules into and out of the cell
What is the term for the maintenance of a steady internal environment within the cell?
Homeostasis
What is the orientation of the hydrophilic polar heads in the phospholipid bilayer?
They face outside and inside of the cell
What is the role of steroids, such as cholesterol, in the plasma membrane?
To stiffen and strengthen the membrane
What is the region of the phospholipid bilayer where the hydrophobic nonpolar tails are located?
The interior of the membrane, away from water
What is the primary purpose of the phospholipid bilayer's hydrophilic polar heads?
To interact with water and facilitate transport
What is the result of the phospholipid bilayer's hydrophobic nonpolar tails facing each other?
Stabilization of the membrane structure
What is the function of the embedded proteins in the phospholipid bilayer?
To regulate the movement of molecules across the membrane
What is the effect of cholesterol in animal cells on the plasma membrane?
Stiffening and strengthening of the membrane
What is the environment that the plasma membrane separates the cell from?
The cell's external environment
Learn about the structure and function of the plasma membrane, including its role in regulating molecule transport and maintaining homeostasis. Understand the composition of the phospholipid bilayer and the properties of hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions.
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