Verified Solution Biology Cell: The Unit of Life

Which characteristic of the cell membrane primarily accounts for its selective permeability to small, uncharged molecules like oxygen and carbon dioxide, allowing them to pass through relatively freely?

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Solution ✔ Verified
  • AThe presence of carrier proteins for facilitated diffusion.
  • BThe hydrophobic interior formed by the lipid bilayer.
  • CThe glycoprotein coat on the outer surface.
  • DThe active transport pumps embedded in the membrane.
Explanation

The hydrophobic interior of the lipid bilayer allows small, uncharged, and lipid-soluble molecules (like O2, CO2) to readily diffuse across the membrane, making it selectively permeable.

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