The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is like the gatekeeper of a cell. It's a biological membrane that separates the interior of all cells from the outside environment. It's primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins. The cell membrane's main job is to protect the cell from its surroundings. It also regulates what enters and exits the cell, maintaining a stable internal environment – a process called homeostasis. The selective permeability of the membrane allows essential nutrients to enter and waste products to exit, ensuring the cell's survival.
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Phospholipid | A. A protein that spans the cell membrane. |
| 2. Integral Protein | B. The movement of molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. |
| 3. Diffusion | C. A type of lipid molecule that is the main component of cell membranes. |
| 4. Cholesterol | D. A process by which cells take in substances from outside the cell by engulfing them in a vesicle. |
| 5. Endocytosis | E. A lipid that helps to maintain membrane fluidity. |
The cell membrane is composed primarily of a __________ bilayer. This bilayer is __________ permeable, which means that only certain molecules can pass through it easily. __________ proteins are embedded within the lipid bilayer and can act as channels or carriers to transport molecules across the membrane. The cell membrane plays a critical role in maintaining __________ and protecting the cell from its __________.
Explain how the structure of the phospholipid bilayer contributes to the selective permeability of the cell membrane.
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