Asked in Premeth Test 3 — The Cell, Evolution and Enzymes (5 March 2025) 2025

Plasma membrane is differentially permeable due to the presence of:

Correct answer: B. Lipids

  • A. Carbohydrates
  • B. Lipids
  • C. Proteins
  • D. Vitamins

Explanation

The correct answer is Lipids (Option B). The plasma membrane is primarily composed of a bilayer of phospholipids, which creates a hydrophobic environment that selectively allows certain substances to pass while blocking others. This selective permeability is crucial for maintaining the internal environment of the cell.Carbohydrates (Option A) are important for cell recognition and communication, but do not directly contribute to the structural integrity of the plasma membrane. Proteins (Option C) are involved in various functions such as transport and signaling, but do not form the membrane structure that determines permeability. Vitamins (Option D) are not involved in the architecture of the plasma membrane and do not play a role in its differential permeability.

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About Animal and Plant Cell

Animal and plant cells share a plasma membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, ribosomes, mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, but plant cells also have a cellulose cell wall, chloroplasts and a large permanent vacuole. Questions cover organelle structure and function, differences between the two cell types, and how membranes control movement of substances.

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