What is the function of the cell membrane?(1 point) Responses generate energy generate energy control the movement of substances in and out of the cell control the movement of substances in and out of the cell store genetic information store genetic information synthesize proteins
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. To determine this, we can refer to basic knowledge about the structure and function of cells.
The cell membrane is a thin, flexible barrier that surrounds the cell and separates the internal environment of the cell from the outside environment. It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer, meaning it consists of two layers of phospholipids with hydrophilic (water-loving) heads facing outward and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails facing inward.
One of the key roles of the cell membrane is to regulate the passage of substances in and out of the cell. It acts as a selective barrier, allowing some substances to pass through while preventing the entry or exit of others. This process is known as selective permeability. The cell membrane achieves this by using various transport proteins, such as channel proteins and carrier proteins, which facilitate the movement of specific molecules across the membrane.
By controlling the movement of substances, the cell membrane helps maintain a stable internal environment, allowing cells to take in essential nutrients, get rid of waste products, and regulate the concentration of ions and molecules inside the cell.
Therefore, the correct answer is: control the movement of substances in and out of the cell.