AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Definition. The cell membrane, also called the plasma membrane, is found in all cells and separates the interior of the cell from the outside environment. The cell membrane consists of a lipid bilayer that is semipermeable. The cell membrane regulates the transport of materials entering and exiting the cell.

Detailed explanation-2: -There are integral membrane proteins called transporters that mediate movement of molecules that are too polar or too large to move across a membrane by diffusion. In order to accomplish this, a solute (molecule to be transported) binds to a specific site on a transporter on one surface of the membrane.

Detailed explanation-3: -Structure of Plasma Membranes The primary function of the plasma membrane is to protect the cell from its surroundings. Composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins, the plasma membrane is selectively permeable to ions and organic molecules and regulates the movement of substances in and out of cells.

Detailed explanation-4: -The fundamental structure of the membrane is the phospholipid bilayer, which forms a stable barrier between two aqueous compartments.

Detailed explanation-5: -Diffusion, osmosis and active transport are some forms of transport seen across the cell membrane.