5.4k views
0 votes
What prevents ions from crossing the plasma membrane via

simple diffusion?
A. Ions are too large.
B. Ions carry a charge.
C. Ions are hydrophobic.
D. Ions do not produce a concentration difference.
E. Ions cannot interact with membrane-bound
proteins.

User Okarin
by
7.3k points

1 Answer

6 votes
Simple diffusion is the concept of a substance moving from an area of high concentration to a lower concentration without energy input. Because the plasma membrane is made of lipids which are non-polar, this membrane readily allows non-polar substances to diffuse through easily. If a substance has a charge like that of an ion, it will be difficult for the ion to cross the plasma membrane through simple diffusion. The answer should be B. 
User Denis Olifer
by
8.3k points