A) What is the function of the cell membrane? (1 point)
generate energy
store genetic information
synthesize proteins
control the movement of substances in and out of the cell
The function of the cell membrane is to control the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
The function of the cell membrane is to control the movement of substances in and out of the cell. (1 point)
The function of the cell membrane is to control the movement of substances in and out of the cell. To understand this, let's break down the question and explore the options:
A) generate energy: While energy generation is crucial for the cell, it is not the primary function of the cell membrane. The process of energy generation occurs within the organelles such as mitochondria, not the cell membrane.
B) store genetic information: Genetic information in cells is stored in the nucleus (in eukaryotic cells) or the nucleoid region (in prokaryotic cells), not the cell membrane.
C) synthesize proteins: Protein synthesis is a complex process that takes place in the ribosomes and endoplasmic reticulum, not the cell membrane.
D) control the movement of substances in and out of the cell: This is the correct answer. The cell membrane acts as a selectively permeable barrier, allowing certain substances to enter or leave the cell while restricting the passage of others. It consists of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that facilitate the selective transport of molecules and ions.
To summarize, the function of the cell membrane is to control the movement of substances in and out of the cell, making option D the correct answer.