The Plasma Membrane Structure and function
The phospholipid bilayer 2 layers of phospholipid molecules –“head” is hydrophylic –“tail” is hydrophobic
Semipermeable! Semipermeable refers to the fact that the membrane only allows certain particles to pass through.
Diffusion Particles naturally will spread out to fill a space evenly.
Osmosis Water will naturally move from hypotonic to hypertonic. This will continue until isotonicity is reached.
Passive Processes “Passive” refers to not requiring energy. –Only possible when moving particles in the direction of natural diffusion. (With the Concentration Gradient)
Proteins imbedded in the membrane form channels allowing larger particles through
Active Transport Proteins imbedded in the membrane force partices against the concentration gradient
Other functions of the membrane Glycoproteins serve as identification. Proteins serve as anchors for the cytoskeleton. Proteins bind cells to one another
Functions Review
Complete Picture of the Membrane