Imagine that you are given an unknown cell sample. You visualize the sample under the microscope and you notice that it has a large number of mitochondria. Based on this observation, what can you say about the function of this cell? The cell might be storing a large amount of toxins. The cell might engulf and digest a large amount of material. The cell might require large amounts of energy. The cell might degrade large amounts of fatty acids.
Structure and Composition of Cell Membrane
Despite differences in structure and function, all living cells in multicellular organisms are surrounded by a cell membrane. Just like the outer layer of the skin separates the body from its environment similarly, the cell membrane, also known as 'plasma membrane,' separates the inner content from its exterior environment.
Cell Membrane
The cell membrane is known by different names like plasma membrane or cytoplasmic membrane, or biological membrane. The term "cell membrane" was first introduced by C. Nageli and C. Cramer in the year 1855. Later on, in 1931, the term "plasmalemma" for cell membrane was given by J. Plowe. The cell membrane separates the cell's internal environment from the extracellular space. This separation allows the protection of cells from their environment.
Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes
The cell is defined as the basic structural and functional unit of life. The cell membrane bounds it. It is capable of independent existence.
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