It is difficult for many molecules to diffuse through the phospholipid bilayer of a plasma membrane without the aid of a membrane transport protein. A molecule that succeeds in doing this is likely to be
Question
It is difficult for many molecules to diffuse through the phospholipid bilayer of a plasma membrane without the aid of a membrane transport protein. A molecule that succeeds in doing this is likely to be
Solution
A molecule that can successfully diffuse through the phospholipid bilayer of a plasma membrane without the aid of a membrane transport protein is likely to be small and nonpolar. This is because the interior of the phospholipid bilayer is hydrophobic, meaning it repels polar molecules and ions, which are typically larger and carry a charge. Nonpolar molecules, on the other hand, are uncharged and can interact favorably with the hydrophobic interior, allowing them to pass through more easily. Examples of such molecules include oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Similar Questions
This question has two parts.Part A. Which structure or molecule is responsible for transporting substances across the plasma membrane if they cannot enter through simple diffusion?Select one:a.Spindle fibersb.Cholesterolc.Proteinsd.CarbohydratesQUESTION 8Question textPart B. Which statement supports your answer to Part A?Select one:a.Carbohydrates act as carriers to transport large particles through the membrane.b.Cholesterol molecules can be formed into openings for active transport.c.Protein molecules form pores that allow substances to pass through.d.Spindle fibers stretch from the outside to the inside of the membrane to allow passage of substances.
Passive membrane transport processes:move solutes down their concentration gradients in the absence of energyalways require the use of channel or carrier proteins to move solutes across the plasma membraneonly transport lipid-soluble solutesrequire the input of energy to move a solute across the plasma membrane
Molecules move through the plasma membrane in different ways depending on their chemical composition. The semi-permeable nature of the plasma membrane allows some molecules to move through easily, while others require the assistance of a transport protein or cellular energy.What method of transport is used for small, polar molecules?Elimination ToolSelect one answerASimple diffusion.BFacilitated diffusion.CActive transport.DOsmosis.
What is the name given to the bulk transport of a molecule dissolved in a liquid across the plasma membrane and into the cell?
Lipid-soluble substances diffuse easily through the plasma membrane, while lipid-insoluble substances must use channel proteins.True false question.TrueFalse
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