CAIE A Level Biology 9700 · Cell membranes and transport

Cell membranes and transport: describe question

Describe5 marksChallenge

The table below lists components of a cell surface membrane and a proposed role. Each proposed role is incorrect or incomplete.

ComponentProposed role
PhospholipidForms a rigid barrier
CholesterolPrevents any movement of phospholipids
GlycoproteinEnergy storage
GlycolipidStructural support
Channel proteinActive transport of ions

For each component, write a correct description of:

  • its arrangement within the fluid mosaic model
  • its actual role(s) in the cell surface membrane, with reference to membrane properties (fluidity, permeability, stability, transport) and, where relevant, the stages of cell signalling (secretion of ligands, transport to target cells, binding of ligands to cell surface receptors).
0 words · 5 marks

No account needed for your first marks. Your answer is used only to mark it.

How this question is marked

5 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 5 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.

Describe means: Say what happens or what something is like, in order and with detail. You are not being asked why. If there is data, quote it: name the trend, then give figures with units at the points where it changes.

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