What is the function of the cell membrane?(1 point)
generate energy
control the movement of substances in and out of the cell
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 understand this, we can think of the cell membrane as a barrier that surrounds the cell and separates its internal environment from the external environment. It is composed of a lipid bilayer, which means it is made up of two layers of phospholipids. These phospholipids have a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (water-fearing) tail.
The hydrophilic heads face outward and interact with the watery environment inside and outside the cell, while the hydrophobic tails face inward and create a barrier to the movement of certain substances.
The cell membrane is selectively permeable, meaning it allows some substances to enter or leave the cell while restricting others. This selective permeability is essential for maintaining an internal balance, also known as homeostasis, within the cell. The cell membrane uses different mechanisms to control the movement of substances, such as transport proteins, channels, and receptors.
For example, essential nutrients like glucose and ions like sodium and potassium need to enter the cell, while waste products and excess water need to leave. The cell membrane facilitates the passage of these substances through various transport processes such as facilitated diffusion, active transport, and endocytosis/exocytosis.
In summary, the function of the cell membrane is to control the movement of substances in and out of the cell to maintain a stable internal environment.