part of the Essay question off of 2003 exam:

Describe how the properties of water contribute to the plasma membrane structure

I would love any help I can get. thnx!

if the membrane lets the water through then it is called osmosis

To answer the question on how the properties of water contribute to the plasma membrane structure, we need to understand both the properties of water and the structure of the plasma membrane.

Water is a unique molecule with several important properties that contribute to its role in biological systems. These properties include cohesion and adhesion, high specific heat capacity, high heat of vaporization, and its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances.

Now, let's discuss the plasma membrane structure. The plasma membrane acts as a semi-permeable barrier that separates the contents of a cell from its external environment. It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.

Water plays a crucial role in the formation and maintenance of the plasma membrane structure. The hydrophobic nature of the lipid tails in the phospholipids allows them to form a double layer, while the hydrophilic heads face the aqueous environment on both sides of the membrane.

The properties of water contribute to the plasma membrane structure in the following ways:

1. Cohesion and adhesion: Water molecules exhibit strong cohesion, which means they tend to stick together. This property helps the phospholipids organize into a bilayer, as the hydrophobic lipid tails are shielded from the surrounding water molecules. Adhesion, the attraction between water molecules and other substances, aids in the attachment of membrane proteins to the lipid bilayer.

2. Solvent properties: Water is an excellent solvent, meaning it has the ability to dissolve substances. This property allows various molecules, such as ions and polar molecules, to be dissolved and transported through the plasma membrane.

3. Osmosis: While it's not directly related to the structure of the plasma membrane, the property of water known as osmosis is essential for maintaining cell homeostasis. Osmosis refers to the movement of water molecules across a semi-permeable membrane, from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. If the plasma membrane allows the passage of water molecules, it enables osmosis to occur, regulating the water balance inside and outside the cell.

In summary, the properties of water, including cohesion, adhesion, solvent properties, and osmosis, contribute to the formation, stability, and functionality of the plasma membrane structure.