Cell Membrane Structure

• What is another name for the cell membrane?


  Plasma membrane
• What is the primary function of the cell membrane?


  To separate the cell's internal components from the external environment
• How thick is the cell membrane?


  Approximately 7-10 nanometers
• What does it mean that the cell membrane is selectively permeable?


  It allows some substances to pass through while blocking others
• In which types of cells is the cell membrane found?

  Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
• What does the fluid mosaic model describe?


  The structure of the cell membrane as fluid and flexible with various molecules
• What forms the main structure of the cell membrane?

  Phospholipid bilayer
• What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?


  They perform various functions and can be embedded or attached to the membrane
• What is the function of cholesterol in the cell membrane?


  Helps maintain membrane fluidity
• What are carbohydrates in the cell membrane associated with?


  They are attached to some lipids and proteins, forming glycolipids and glycoproteins
• What is the barrier function of the cell membrane?


  It separates the cell's interior from the external environment
• How does the cell membrane exhibit selective permeability?


  It allows small molecules like oxygen and carbon dioxide to pass through while restricting larger molecules or ions
• What is the role of cell recognition in the cell membrane?


  It helps cells identify and interact with each other
• What does signal transduction refer to in the context of the cell membrane?


  It receives and transmits signals from the environment to the cell interior
• What is the function of cell adhesion in the cell membrane?


  It allows cells to attach to each other and to the extracellular matrix
• How are some proteins in the cell membrane involved in energy production?


  They are involved in ATP synthesis
• What are the key features of the fluid mosaic model?


  • Phospholipid bilayer forms the main structure
  • Proteins embedded in or attached to the bilayer
  • Molecules can move laterally within the membrane
  • Cholesterol helps maintain fluidity
• What are the main components of the cell membrane?


  1. Phospholipids: Main structural component
  2. Proteins: Perform various functions
  3. Cholesterol: Maintains fluidity
  4. Carbohydrates: Form glycolipids and glycoproteins
• What are the functions of the cell membrane?


  1. Barrier function: Separates cell interior from external environment
  2. Selective permeability: Controls entry and exit of substances
  3. Cell recognition: Identifies and interacts with other cells
  4. Signal transduction: Receives and transmits signals
  5. Cell adhesion: Allows cells to attach to each other
  6. Energy production: Involves ATP synthesis