Cell Transport and Membrane Function

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cell transport mechanisms and plasma membrane structure and function.

Plasma Membrane

The boundary between the inside and outside of a cell, composed of a phospholipid bilayer with proteins.

Fluid Mosaic Model

Describes the structure and function of the plasma membrane, where phospholipids and proteins move freely.

Passive Transport

Movement of molecules across the cell membrane without the use of ATP, driven by concentration gradients.

Active Transport

Movement of molecules against a concentration gradient, requiring energy in the form of ATP.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of higher water concentration to an area of lower water concentration.

Isotonic Solution

A solution with equal solute concentration inside and outside a cell, resulting in no net movement of water.

Hypotonic Solution

A solution with a lower solute concentration outside the cell than inside, causing water to flow into the cell and potentially lysing it.

Hypertonic Solution

A solution with a higher solute concentration outside the cell than inside, causing water to flow out and leading to cell crenation.

Facilitated Diffusion

Movement of molecules across the cell membrane via a protein carrier without energy expenditure.

Endocytosis

The process by which a cell takes in material by engulfing it within a portion of the plasma membrane.

Phagocytosis

A type of endocytosis where the cell engulfs large particles or cells, also known as 'cell eating'.

Pinocytosis

A type of endocytosis where the cell takes in fluids and solutes, also known as 'cell drinking'.

Exocytosis

The process of vesicles fusing with the plasma membrane to release substances outside the cell.