Plasma Membrane Permeability Explained
The plasma membrane encloses the cell, acting as a barrier and controlling transport.
Based on its function, the plasma membrane is described by its permeability properties.
Permeability Nature of Plasma Membrane
The plasma membrane exhibits selective permeability. This means it carefully regulates which substances can pass into or out of the cell.
- It allows essential molecules like nutrients and water to enter.
- It permits waste products to exit.
- It restricts the passage of unwanted or harmful substances.
This selective nature is crucial for maintaining the cell's internal environment (homeostasis).
Comparing Permeability Options
- Semi-permeable: Allows all molecules of a certain size or type to pass, while blocking others. This term is often used but is less precise than selectively permeable for the plasma membrane.
- Selectively permeable: Allows specific molecules or ions to pass through by means of active or passive transport. This accurately describes the plasma membrane's function.
- Fully permeable: Allows all substances to pass through freely. This is incorrect for the plasma membrane.
- Fully non-permeable: Allows no substances to pass through. This is also incorrect, as transport is essential for life.
Therefore, the most accurate description of the plasma membrane's function regarding permeability is selectively permeable.
Similar Questions
- When a living plant cell loses water through osmosis, what happens to the cell contents?
- Which type of cell has very small vacuoles?
- Which of the following option is INCORRECT about plasma membrane?
- The double-layered covering of the nucleus is called as ______
- Which of the following events happens when lysosomes in a cell burst?
A fungal cell wall is made of ________.
Which cell organelle is called the Master of the Cell?
Which of the following statements is/are true or false?
Statements:
A. Pea plant was chosen by Mendel to work upon
B. Chromosomes are the carrier of factor
C. Forelimb of human the organ analogous to the wings of birds
Which of the following statements is NOT true of Meiosis?
A girl child has which of the following combinations of chromosomes in her cells?
Important Questions from Cell
In a plant cell, which one of the following contains their own DNA?
Which one of the following structures or components is not always present in living cells?
Which one of the following statements about animal cells and plant cells is correct?
- Which one of the following statements about vacuoles' is not correct?
- A cell is unable to synthesize lipids. Which of its cell organelles might be defective?
