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RNA Transcription
The process through which a segment of DNA is copied into RNA.
Phospholipid Bilayer
A double layer of phospholipids that makes up the cellular membrane, with hydrophilic heads facing outward and hydrophobic tails inward.
Hydrophilic
Literally meaning 'water-loving', these are molecules or parts of molecules that are attracted to water.
Hydrophobic
Literally meaning 'water-fearing', these are molecules or parts of molecules that repel water.
Selective Barrier
A property of cell membranes that allows certain substances to pass while blocking others.
Concentration Gradient
A difference in the concentration of a substance across a space; molecules tend to move from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration.
Active Transport
The movement of ions or molecules across a cell membrane from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration, requiring energy.
ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)
The primary energy carrier in all living organisms that provides energy for various cellular processes.
ADP (Adenosine Diphosphate)
The molecule formed when ATP loses one of its phosphate groups, releasing energy.
Membrane permeability
The ability of certain molecules to pass through the membrane, which can depend on size, charge, and polarity.
Transport Proteins
Proteins that aid in the movement of ions and larger molecules across the cell membranes.
Compartmentalization
The division of cellular processes into separate regions within the cell to enhance efficiency.
Eukaryotic Cell
A type of cell with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, which can compartmentalize biochemical processes.
Channel Protein
A type of transport protein that forms a passageway for specific substances to cross the membrane.
Molecule Size and Charge
Key factors that determine the ability of a molecule to cross the phospholipid bilayer of a membrane.
Protein Domains
Specific regions of a protein that have distinct structural and functional properties.
Gradient
A difference in concentration of molecules across a membrane, which influences their movement.
Sodium Channel
A specific type of channel protein that selectively allows sodium ions to flow into the cell.
Ion Transport
The movement of charged particles (ions) across a membrane, facilitatiated by transport proteins.
Gated Transport
The regulated movement of molecules in and out of the cell through protein channels that can open or close.
Polar Groups
Functional groups that have a dipole moment due to the presence of polar bonds.
Nonpolar Long Chains
Hydrophobic regions of molecules that typically do not interact favorably with water.
