What is the function of the plasma membrane?
It helps filter waste inside the cell.
It contains hereditary material.
It helps recognize other cells.
It helps plants maintain their shape.
The correct answer is: It helps recognize other cells.
The function of the plasma membrane, also known as the cell membrane, is to control the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It acts as a selective barrier that allows nutrients to enter the cell and waste products to exit. In addition to its role in regulating the passage of molecules, the plasma membrane also plays several other important functions. These include:
1. Maintaining cell integrity: The plasma membrane helps to maintain the shape and structure of the cell by providing a protective boundary between the cell's internal environment and the external environment.
2. Cell signaling and communication: The plasma membrane contains proteins and receptors that allow the cell to communicate with other cells and respond to signals from its surroundings. This helps in processes such as cell adhesion, immune responses, and cell-to-cell signaling.
3. Cell recognition: The plasma membrane contains various molecules, such as carbohydrates, that act as markers to identify the cell as part of a particular organism or tissue. This allows the immune system to distinguish between self and non-self cells.
4. Cell adhesion: The plasma membrane contains proteins that facilitate cell adhesion, allowing cells to stick together and form tissues and organs.
5. Regulation of cell growth and division: The plasma membrane plays a role in regulating cell growth and division by controlling the transport of molecules involved in these processes.
To summarize, while the plasma membrane helps filter waste inside the cell, it primarily functions to regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell, maintain cell integrity, facilitate cell signaling and communication, aid in cell recognition and adhesion, and regulate cell growth and division.