Cell membranes and transport

In this chapter, you will learn to:

• Explain the structure of phospholipids and describe the fluid mosaic model of membrane organization.

• Describe how molecules are arranged within cell surface membranes.

• Outline the functions of different molecules present in cell membranes.

• Summarize the process of cell signaling.

• Explain the mechanisms by which substances move into and out of cells through their membranes.

• Conduct practical experiments to investigate diffusion and osmosis.

• Demonstrate how surface area to volume ratios decrease as size increases.

• Describe water movement between cells and their surroundings using the concept of water potential.