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Biological Membrane Transport definitions

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  • Biological Membrane
    A selectively permeable barrier that regulates entry and exit of molecules, crucial for cellular homeostasis.
  • Selective Permeability
    Property allowing only certain molecules to cross, based on size, charge, and polarity, maintaining cellular control.
  • Concentration Gradient
    Difference in molecule concentration across a space, driving passive movement from high to low regions.
  • Chemical Equilibrium
    State where molecules are evenly distributed, resulting in no net movement across a membrane.
  • Passive Transport
    Movement of molecules across membranes without energy input, relying on concentration gradients.
  • Simple Diffusion
    Direct movement of small, uncharged, nonpolar molecules through a membrane, requiring no assistance.
  • Facilitated Diffusion
    Transport of polar or charged molecules across membranes via specific proteins, without energy expenditure.
  • Active Transport
    Energy-dependent process moving molecules against concentration gradients, often using ATP.
  • Membrane Permeability
    Measure of how easily molecules traverse a membrane, influenced by molecular properties and membrane structure.
  • Macromolecular Transport
    Movement of large molecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, across membranes, often requiring specialized mechanisms.
  • Hydrophobic Molecule
    Nonpolar substance that interacts poorly with water, often able to cross membranes easily.
  • Hydrophilic Molecule
    Polar or charged substance that interacts well with water, typically requiring facilitation to cross membranes.
  • Ion
    Charged particle, such as sodium or chloride, unable to freely cross membranes due to electrical and size constraints.
  • Permeability Coefficient
    Quantitative value indicating the rate at which a molecule passes through a membrane, higher values mean easier passage.
  • Phospholipid
    Major membrane component forming a bilayer, creating a selective barrier for molecular transport.