Final answer:
The cell membrane is selectively permeable, allowing certain substances to pass through while preventing others.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cell Membrane and Selectively Permeable
The term 'selectively permeable' refers to the property of the cell membrane that allows certain substances to pass through while preventing others. The cell membrane acts as a barrier and controls the movement of molecules into and out of the cell. It consists of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that regulate the transport of ions, water, and other molecules.
For example, small molecules like oxygen and carbon dioxide can diffuse across the cell membrane through simple diffusion. Larger molecules or charged ions may require specific transport proteins or channels to cross the membrane.
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