Cell Membranes
The cell membrane (also known as the plasma membrane or cytoplasmic membrane) is a thin, flexible barrier that surrounds and protects the cells of all living things.
It is made up of a double layer of lipids (fats) and proteins. The cell membrane is vital to the function of the cell, as it controls what enters and leaves the cell.
The cell membrane is made up of a double layer of lipids, which are arranged in a phospholipid bilayer. The lipid molecules are constantly moving around and rearranging themselves.
Proteins are also found in the cell membrane, embedded in the lipid bilayer. These proteins perform many important functions, such as transporting molecules across the membrane, signaling between cells, and providing structural support.
The cell membrane is selectively permeable, meaning that it allows some molecules to pass through it while excluding others. This is a vital function, as it allows the cell to maintain an internal environment that is different from its surroundings.
The cell membrane is constantly changing, as lipids and proteins are constantly moving around and rearranging themselves. This flexibility is important for the function of the cell, as it allows the cell to change in response to its environment.
The cell membrane is a vital part of the cell and is involved in many important functions. It is important to understand the cell membrane in order to fully understand how cells work.