M2 Factors Affecting Membrane Permeability

Question 1

How does temperature affect membrane permeability?

Answer 1

• Below zero = little kinetic energy= phospholipids close together = ice crystals form = piece membrane = increases permeability
• As temp increases, kinetic energy increases of the phospholipids therefore they become further apart increasing permeability
• At high temperatures, bilayer melts and the proteins denature. H2O expands putting pressure on the membrane.

Question 1

How does the conc. of solvents affect membrane permeability?

Answer 1

Solvents dissolve the lipids in the membrane. Some increase permeability more than others e.g. methanol
As volume of conc. increases, permeability increases