Cell membrane is selective permeable. This means that it (a)...

Cell membrane is selective permeable. This means that it
(a) allows all materials to pass through
(b) allows only water to pass through
(c) allows only certain materials to pass through
(d) allows only ions to pass through.

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Key Concepts

Selective Permeability

This concept refers to the ability of a cell membrane to allow only certain substances to pass while restricting others. It is a critical feature of living cells, enabling them to maintain homeostasis by controlling the internal environment despite varying external conditions.

Cell Membrane Structure

The cell membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer interspersed with proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates. This structure provides the physical barrier that confers selective permeability, with protein channels and carriers facilitating specific transport processes.

Membrane Transport Mechanisms

To manage the selective entry and exit of substances, cells utilize various transport mechanisms such as passive diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and active transport. These processes enable the movement of molecules based on concentration gradients or energy-dependent mechanisms, ensuring that necessary materials enter the cell while waste and harmful substances are expelled.

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