(c) factors affecting membrane structure and permeability

What does an increase in temperature result in?

Ph.l have more kinetic energy

Membrane becomes more fluid +loses its structure - can break down as temp increases which then increases permeability

What happens to the channel and carrier proteins?

They denature and becomes more permeable membrane

What happens when plasmamembrane comes in contact with water

Charged phosphate heads interact with water - keeps bilayer intact

What happens when alcohol comes into contact with plasmammenrane (organic solvent)

Less polar than water so dissolves the membrane

Less concentrated solutions (like alcoholic drinks) can cause damage still

Non polar - the disrupt the membrane - more fluid + permeable - less intact - cells like nerve cells cant function properly

Why are alcohols used in antiseptic wipes

Alcohols dissolve the membrane of a bacteria in a wound and kills them and reduces infection