Question

Which of the following descriptions supports the role of the cell membrane in maintaining homeostasis?

a. The plasma membrane allows all substances to move in and out of the cell.
b. The plasma membrane does not allow substances to pass outside of the cell.
c. The plasma membrane can control the movement of some molecules to move into or out of the cell.
d. The plasma membrane only functions to support the cell and does not have a role in transport.

Answer 1

The cell membrane, through its selective permeability, controls the movement of molecules in and out of the cell, thereby maintaining homeostasis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis within the cell. The correct description that supports the role of the cell membrane in maintaining homeostasis is that the plasma membrane can control the movement of some molecules to move into or out of the cell. This property is described as selective permeability, which ensures that the internal environment of the cell remains constant, despite varying external conditions. The plasma membrane's structure and functional mechanisms, including passive and active transport, are vital for the regulation of substances entering and exiting the cell, therefore sustaining the life of the cell.