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.
![The image displays three microscopic views with variable magnification levels indicated by buttons labeled 4X, 10X, 40X, and 100X.
**First Image:**
- Magnification Level: 4X
- The view shows a large cluster of small, rounded structures, likely cells, with a pale purple coloration. The focus settings include adjustable coarse and fine focus, with a light adjustment option.
**Second Image:**
- Magnification Level: 10X
- The image shows a more detailed view of the structures seen in the first image. The rounded bodies are more distinct, with darker centers suggesting a nucleus or similar component. Coarse and fine focus, along with light adjustment, are present.
**Third Image:**
- Magnification Level: 40X
- Two key points marked as A and B:
- **A**: Points to a prominent circular structure within the image, emphasized by a clear boundary line, possibly indicating a specific region or type of cell in focus.
- **B**: Points to another notable area or structure. The image has complex details, with visible textures and intricate network-like patterns.
- Focus and light adjustments are similar to previous images.
Overall, these images serve to demonstrate the process of adjusting focus and magnification to study microscopic structures, emphasizing the importance of fine-tuning in achieving clarity and detail.](/v2/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcontent.bartleby.com%2Fqna-images%2Fquestion%2F8c9ffab5-cfc3-439d-93f9-e5df72590898%2F573d3ee6-f3a4-4ca3-a74a-4434ee1b060e%2F4sk7ttxr_processed.png&w=3840&q=75)
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