Multiple Choice
In the context of the lipid bilayer, the cell (plasma) membrane is best described as being what kind of permeable?
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8. Membrane Structure
The Lipid Bilayer
Multiple Choice
In the context of the lipid bilayer, what is the primary purpose of the cell (plasma) membrane?
A
To act as a selectively permeable barrier that regulates movement of substances into and out of the cell while maintaining cellular homeostasis
B
To store the cell’s genetic information and direct transcription in the cytoplasm
C
To provide the main site of ribosome assembly and rRNA processing
D
To synthesize ATP through oxidative phosphorylation using the electron transport chain
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the cell (plasma) membrane is a fundamental structure surrounding the cell, composed mainly of a lipid bilayer with embedded proteins.
Recognize that the lipid bilayer creates a hydrophobic barrier that prevents free passage of most water-soluble substances, thus controlling what enters and leaves the cell.
Identify that the membrane's selective permeability allows it to regulate the internal environment of the cell, maintaining homeostasis by controlling ion concentrations, nutrient uptake, and waste removal.
Distinguish the plasma membrane's role from other cellular components: it does not store genetic information (that is the nucleus), nor is it the site of ribosome assembly (nucleolus), nor does it synthesize ATP via oxidative phosphorylation (mitochondria).
Conclude that the primary purpose of the plasma membrane is to act as a selectively permeable barrier that regulates movement of substances into and out of the cell while maintaining cellular homeostasis.
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