Membrane permeability (P4)

Cards (5)

What is the aim of the membrane permeability practical
To investigate how a variable affects cell membrane permeability
what biological material is commonly used
beetroot due to its red pigment that leaks when membrane is damaged
how is permeability assessed
by measuring the absorbance of the solution using a colorimeter - higher absorbance = more pigment = more permeability
what could increase membrane permeability
higher temperatures (disrupts phospholipids) or organic solvents like ethanol (dissolve membrane lipids)
why is it important to rinse beetroot cylinders before the experiment
to remove any pigment released due to cutting which could affect results