Q: Which equation correctly represents the relationship between osmolarity, solute concentration, and water movement across a selectively permeable membrane?

$$\text{Osmotic Pressure} = nRT$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the plasma membrane in human cells?

Accepted Answer

It is a flexible boundary that separates intracellular fluid from extracellular fluid and regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Question 2

Which of the following cell types is specialized for information gathering and control of body functions?

Accepted Answer

Nerve cell (neuron)

Question 3

A mutation in the CFTR gene leads to cystic fibrosis by affecting which cellular structure and function?

Accepted Answer

A transmembrane protein channel, impairing chloride ion transport across the membrane

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why oxygen and carbon dioxide can easily diffuse across the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

They are nonpolar, lipid-soluble molecules that can pass directly through the phospholipid bilayer.

Question 5

A red blood cell is placed in a hypotonic solution. What is the most likely outcome, and why?

Accepted Answer

The cell will swell and may burst because water moves into the cell.

Question 6

Which of the following is a function of integral membrane proteins?

Accepted Answer

They act as channels, carriers, enzymes, or receptors for signal transduction.

Question 7

Which equation correctly represents the relationship between osmolarity, solute concentration, and water movement across a selectively permeable membrane?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Osmotic Pressure} = nRT$$

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the role of cholesterol in the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

It stabilizes the membrane and decreases its fluidity in certain regions.

Question 9

A patient is given an intravenous solution that is hypertonic relative to their red blood cells. What will happen to the cells?

Accepted Answer

They will shrink as water leaves the cells.

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a function of the glycocalyx on the cell surface?

Accepted Answer

Serving as a major site for ATP synthesis

Question 11

Which type of cell junction would be most important in the epithelial lining of the stomach to prevent leakage of digestive enzymes between cells?

Accepted Answer

Tight junctions

Question 12

Which of the following best describes facilitated diffusion?

Accepted Answer

Passive movement of molecules down their concentration gradient via a protein carrier or channel

Question 13

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the concept of selective permeability of the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

Some molecules, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, pass easily, while others, like glucose, require specific transport proteins.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why a mutation in a membrane channel protein can lead to disease?

Accepted Answer

It can disrupt the normal movement of ions or molecules, leading to imbalances and impaired cell function.

Question 15

Which of the following is a real-life example of osmosis affecting cell function?

Accepted Answer

A red blood cell placed in pure water swells and bursts due to water influx.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of desmosomes?

Accepted Answer

They anchor adjacent cells together and provide mechanical stability, especially in tissues subject to stress.

Question 17

Which of the following is true regarding the movement of water during osmosis?

Accepted Answer

Water moves from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the role of peripheral proteins in the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

They are loosely attached to integral proteins and function as enzymes, motor proteins, or for membrane support.

Question 19

A scientist observes that a certain cell type has abundant microvilli on its surface. What is the most likely function of this cell?

Accepted Answer

Increased absorption of extracellular materials

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why facilitated diffusion is limited by the number of carrier proteins present in the membrane?

Accepted Answer

Carrier proteins can become saturated when all are occupied, limiting the rate of transport.

Cells: The Living Units – Structure, Function, and Membrane Transport

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