Download Homework Questions – Unit 1 – Biochemistry Section: The Cell

Homework Questions – Unit 1 – Biochemistry
Section: The Cell Membrane
1.
2.
3.
4.
List 3 functions of the cell membrane.
Identify the component(s) of the cell membrane that give it a fluid consistency.
Why does the cell membrane require a fluid consistency?
Why does your body manufacture cholesterol even if you do not eat any food that contain
cholesterol?
Section: Through the Cell Membrane
1. Define diffusion using one specific example.
2. Explain the concept of a concentration gradient, and use a simplified diagram to clarify your
explanation.
3. Identify three different molecules that diffuse into cells.
4. Distinguish between osmosis and diffusion.
5. What is homeostasis? Why is homeostasis important to cells?
6. Diffusion allows for the effective movement of substances over short distances. How is this
important for the cell?
7. How is facilitated diffusion different from diffusion?
8. Identify two distinguishing properties of molecules that determines what type of transporter
protein is used.
9. What would happen to a cell if its cell membrane were permeable rather than semi-permeable?
10. Explain why water pollution has such a profound effect on living organisms.
Section: Bulk Membrane Transport
1. How does the structure of the cell membrane facilitate endocytosis/exocytosis?
2. Endocytosis involves the formation of vesicles to bring matter into the cell. Once inside, what
happens to this matter?
3. Compare and contrast endocytosis to active transport.