unit 1 : cell transport

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and definitions related to cell transport, including passive and active transport mechanisms, properties of cell membranes, and examples.

Cell Membrane

A selectively permeable barrier that surrounds the cell and regulates what enters and leaves.

Selectively Permeable

A property of cell membranes that allows some substances to pass through while others cannot.

Phospholipid Bilayer

A double layer of phospholipids that makes up cell membranes, allowing small molecules to pass.

Marker Protein

A protein with a unique carbohydrate chain that identifies cells for functions such as organ matching.

Protein Channel

A type of protein that allows larger molecules to pass through the cell membrane.

Receptor Protein

A protein that allows cells to communicate with the external environment.

Homeostasis

The stable internal balance maintained by a cell or organism.

Diffusion

The movement of molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water through a selectively permeable membrane.

Hypertonic Solution

A solution with a high concentration of solute compared to another, causing cells to shrink when placed in it.

Hypotonic Solution

A solution with a low concentration of solute compared to another, causing cells to swell when placed in it.

Isotonic Solution

A solution with the same concentration of solute as another, allowing water to move in and out of cells at equal rates.

Passive Transport

Movement of substances across the cell membrane without the use of energy.

Active Transport

Movement of substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy in the form of ATP.

Endocytosis

A process where large materials enter the cell through vesicles.

Exocytosis

A process where large materials exit the cell using vesicles.

Cytolysis

The process of a cell bursting due to excessive water intake.

Plasmolysis

The process where a cell shrinks due to loss of water in a hypertonic environment.