Which of the following is a function of the cell membrane of a cell
The cell membrane is a vital component of a cell and performs several important functions. It acts as a selective barrier, regulating the passage of substances in and out of the cell. One way to determine the functions of the cell membrane is to understand its structure and composition.
To determine which of the following options is a function of the cell membrane, we need to examine each option:
1. Protecting the cell from external threats: The cell membrane indeed acts as a protective barrier, preventing harmful substances from entering the cell. This function helps maintain the integrity and stability of the cell's internal environment.
2. Regulating the transport of molecules: The cell membrane is selectively permeable, which means it controls the movement of molecules in and out of the cell. It allows essential substances such as nutrients and water to enter while preventing the passage of harmful or unnecessary substances.
3. Facilitating cell-cell communication: The cell membrane contains various proteins and receptors that enable communication between cells. These proteins help transmit signals and information, allowing cells to coordinate their activities and respond to external stimuli.
4. Synthesizing proteins: Protein synthesis primarily occurs in the ribosomes, which are located either on the rough endoplasmic reticulum or floating freely in the cytoplasm. Although the cell membrane plays a role in protein trafficking and sorting, it is not directly involved in protein synthesis.
Based on the above analysis, the correct function of the cell membrane is option 2: regulating the transport of molecules.