Question

Which of the following prevents an ion to cross the plasma membrane via simple diffusion?

• A. Ions are too large.
• B. Ions carry a charge.
• C. Ions are hydrophobic.
• D. Ions do not produce a concentration difference.
• E. Ions cannot interact with membrane-bound proteins.

Answer 1

The correct option is B Ions carry a charge.

Ions are small atoms or molecules carrying an electric charge. The core of plasma membrane is composed of nonpolar hydrophobic lipid tails and prevent simple diffusion of these charged particles. Thus, the correct answer is B.