Chapter 7.2, Problem 4MI

Summary Introduction

To analyze:

The consequences if the cell membrane is not selectively permeable.

Introduction:

The plasma membrane or cell membrane is the living boundary of a cell and is made of lipoprotein. It is selectively permeable or a semi-permeable membrane. It regulates the movement of substances across the membrane by the selective entry of molecules

Explanation of Solution

The cell membrane is a selectively or semi-permeable membrane that only allows small and non-polar molecules to pass across and prevents polar ions or molecules to pass. Thus, it controls the movement of molecules and maintaining the constant internal environment.If the cell membrane is not selectively permeable, then it will not restrict molecules from passing across itself. All the molecules whether they are useful or harmful will pass through it. This will create problems as along with useful, harmful molecules will also pass through it. This may cause protoplasmic instability and the cell's homeostasis may get disturbed. Thus, the cell may die or get destroyed by losing the semi-permeable nature of its membrane.

Conclusion

On losing the semi-permeable nature of the cell membrane, the cell might be destroyed because wastes could not leave and inappropriate molecules might enter the cell.