QQuestionAnatomy and Physiology
QuestionAnatomy and Physiology
Some students used vinegar to dissolve away the shells of three eggs and used these eggs as models of human red blood cells. The students observed the changes in the eggs when they were placed in different solutions.
### Which statement best describes the role of the cell membrane in this model?
- ☐ The cell membrane is an impermeable barrier that prevents water from entering the cell.
- ☐ The cell membrane allows solutes to enter the cell, which causes the cell to shrink.
- ☐ The cell membrane allows water to enter and leave the cell.
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Answer
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Step 1: Identify the role of the cell membrane in this model.
The cell membrane, modeled by the vinegar-dissolved egg shell, is responsible for regulating the movement of substances in and out of a cell. It is selectively permeable, meaning it allows certain substances to pass through while blocking others.
Step 2: Analyze the statements based on the model.
- The cell membrane is an impermeable barrier that prevents water from entering the cell. This statement is incorrect because the egg shell (cell membrane in this model) does allow water to enter. - The cell membrane allows solutes to enter the cell, which causes the cell to shrink. This statement is not applicable to the model because solutes are not mentioned in the problem. - The cell membrane allows water to enter and leave the cell. This statement is correct and consistent with the model.
Final Answer
The cell membrane allows water to enter and leave the cell.
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