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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the primary function of the plasma membrane in a eukaryotic cell?
A
It produces energy through cellular respiration.
B
It synthesizes proteins for the cell.
C
It regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell.
D
It stores genetic information.
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of the plasma membrane in a eukaryotic cell. The plasma membrane is a selectively permeable barrier that surrounds the cell, controlling the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
Step 2: Eliminate incorrect options based on the functions of other organelles. For example, energy production through cellular respiration is primarily the function of mitochondria, not the plasma membrane.
Step 3: Recognize that protein synthesis is the function of ribosomes, which may be free-floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum, not the plasma membrane.
Step 4: Note that genetic information is stored in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, not the plasma membrane.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct description of the plasma membrane's primary function is its role in regulating the movement of substances into and out of the cell, ensuring homeostasis and communication with the external environment.