Membranes Flashcards
What makes up a membrane?
Phospholipids and proteins make up the phospholipid bilayer
How wide are membranes?
7nm
What are membranes seen as on an electron microscope?
Two dark bands
What are the four functions of membranes?
- Selectively permeable barrier
- Taking up nutrients
- Secreting chemicals
- Cell to cell recognition (to avoid pathogens)
Is the phosphate group on a phospholipid hydrophilic or hydrophobic?
Hydrophilic
Is the fatty acid on a phospholipid hydrophilic or hydrophobic?
Hydrophobic
What is the function of the phospholipid bilayer?
Acts as a barrier to large polar molecules
What is the diagram of the plasma membrane called?
The fluid mosaic model
What is the function of the phospholipids in the plasma membrane?
Creates the bilayer
What is the function of the glycoproteins in the plasma membrane?
Used for cell to cell recognition
What is the function of the glycolipids in the plasma membrane?
Used for cell to cell recognition
What is the function of carbohydrates in the plasma membrane?
Used for cell to cell recognition
What is the function of cholesterol in the plasma membrane?
Makes the membrane stable and fluid
What is the function of extrinsic proteins in the plasma membrane?
Likely to be enzymes or structural material in the cytoskeleton
What is the function of channel forming proteins in the plasma membrane?
Hydrophilic pores that allows polar molecules through the membrane
What is the function of the phospholipid bilayer?
Creates a selectively permeable membrane
What is the function of channel proteins?
Allow polar molecules across the membrane
What is the function of carrier proteins?
Used in active transport and facilitated diffusion
What is the function of receptor proteins?
For hormones, a specific 3D shape complementary to molecules such as hormones
What are the four roles of internal membranes?
- Separate components from cytoplasm for specialisation
- Holds metabolic pathways in place. Chemical reactions take place on membranes
- Ribosomes are attached to membranes (SER)
- Control of movement of substances
Define diffusion?
The movement of molecules or ions from a region of high concentration to a region of low concentration down a concentration gradient
What type of molecules can be moved by diffusion? (2)
.Small non-polar molecules
.Large lipid soluble molecules