Multiple Choice
Which of these are not embedded in the hydrophobic portion of the lipid bilayer at all?
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2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components
Biological Membranes
Multiple Choice
Which of the following can cross the plasma membrane due to its selective permeability?
A
Sodium ions
B
Oxygen molecules
C
Glucose molecules
D
Large proteins
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of selective permeability: The plasma membrane allows certain substances to pass through while blocking others, based on factors like size, charge, and solubility.
Identify the characteristics of the substances listed: Sodium ions are charged particles, glucose molecules are large polar molecules, and large proteins are even larger and typically polar or charged.
Consider the nature of oxygen molecules: Oxygen is a small, nonpolar molecule, which allows it to easily diffuse across the lipid bilayer of the plasma membrane.
Recall the mechanism of diffusion: Nonpolar molecules like oxygen can passively diffuse through the lipid bilayer without the need for transport proteins or energy.
Conclude why oxygen molecules can cross the plasma membrane: Due to their small size and nonpolar nature, oxygen molecules can move freely across the membrane, unlike charged ions or large polar molecules.
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