Write down the functions of the plasma membrane

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Detailed Solution

The plasma membrane controls the movement of substances into and out of the cell and protects the cell’s internal environment.

Main Functions

Selective Permeability: It allows only specific substances to enter or leave the cell, such as nutrients and waste products.
Protection: It separates the cell from its surroundings, protecting cell components.
Communication: Contains proteins that help the cell recognize and interact with other cells.
Transport: Uses diffusion, osmosis, and active transport to move molecules.
Support and Structure: Maintains cell shape and anchors the cytoskeleton.

Structure

The plasma membrane is made of a lipid bilayer (mainly phospholipids) with embedded proteins. It is described by the “fluid mosaic model.”

Transport Mechanisms

Type	Description	Example
Diffusion	Movement from high to low concentration	Oxygen entering cells
Osmosis	Diffusion of water through a semi-permeable membrane	Water balance in cells
Active Transport	Requires energy (ATP) to move substances	Ion pumps

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