Term

The Plasma Membrane is selectively permeable:

Definition

1. Nonpolar molecules, such as hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide, and oxygen, are all hydrophobic. These can dissolve in the lipid bilayer and cross. 2. Ions and polar molecules cannot pass through 3. Water can pass slowly 4. Charged atoms or molecules are less likely to penetrate

Term

The Plasma Membrane is Fluid:

Definition

1. Individual phospholipids and unanchored proteins can move through the membrane 2. Saturated Fatty acids make the membrane less fluid than unsaturated fatty acids. 3. Warm temperatures make the membrane more fluid than cold temperatures. 4. Lipid composition of the ER membrane, Golgi, and plasma membrane is all distinct. Composition affects fluidity, thickness, and shape of membrane.

Term

The Plasma Membrane has a double membrane/bilayer:

Definition

Due to the chemistry of phospholipids, the tails of phospholipids do not want to interact with water. The tails will arrange themselves to be out of contact with water, while the heads are in contact.