Question

What Is The Main Function Of Cell Membrane?

Answer 1

Cell Membrane :

The cell membrane is also known as the plasma membrane. It is the outermost covering of animal cells. It is a semi-permeable membrane composed of lipids and proteins.

Functions of cell membrane:

1. It maintains the individuality and shape of the cell.
2. It separates the cell contents from the surrounding environment and the cell organelles from cytosol.
3. It shows selective permeability and controls the exchange of materials between the cell and its surroundings and retention of absorbed substances.
4. The microvilli increase the surface area and help in absorption of substances.
5. It is involved in excretion and secretion of materials by exocytosis.
6. The oligosaccharides of cell membrane help in recognition of self from non self.
7. The cell membrane receptors allow flow of information into the cell.
8. The carrier proteins of plasma membrane help in active and passive transport of substances.
9. It is involved in pinocytosis and phagocytosis.
10. It is involved in osmosis.
11. It helps in pseudopodial movements of the cells like WBCS and fibroblasts.
12. It forms sheaths of flagella and cilia.
13. It takes part in neural transmission of impulses.