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Plasma Membranes

Definition

A plasma membrane is a thin, flexible barrier that surrounds all cells and separates the cell's interior from its external environment. It controls what enters and leaves the cell.

Related terms

Lipid Bilayer: This is a universal component of all cell membranes. The lipid bilayer acts as a sturdy barrier that prevents random substances from entering or leaving the cell.

Semi-permeable Membrane: This is a type of biological or synthetic membrane that will allow certain molecules or ions to pass through it by diffusion and occasionally specialized 'transport proteins'.

Cell Wall: This is an additional layer present outside the plasma membrane in plant cells, fungi, bacteria, etc., providing these cells with structural support and protection.

"Plasma Membranes" appears in:

Study guides (1)

  • AP Biology - 2.4 Plasma Membranes

Practice Questions (1)

  • Aquaporins allow water to move through plasma membranes regardless of water's polarity. Water moving through aquaporins is an example of this:

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About Us

About Fiveable

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Privacy Policy

CCPA Privacy Policy

Resources

Cram Mode

AP Score Calculators

Study Guides

Practice Quizzes

Glossary

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Crisis Text Line

Help Center

© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.