Why is the plasma membrane called a selectively permeable membrane?
GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer
The plasma membrane is called selectively permeable (or semi-permeable) because it allows certain substances to pass through while restricting others. This selective nature is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Small, non-polar molecules like oxygen and carbon dioxide can easily diffuse through, while larger molecules, ions, and polar substances require specific transport proteins. This selectivity enables the cell to control what enters and exits, maintaining optimal internal conditions for cellular processes.
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