What is the role of the cell membrane in bacteria?

What is the role of the cell membrane in bacteria?

• A. To provide structural support to the bacterial cell
• B. To regulate the transport of substances into and out of the cell
• C. To store genetic material for reproduction
• D. To facilitate photosynthesis in some bacteria

Answer: (B)

The cell membrane in bacteria, also known as the cytoplasmic membrane, plays a crucial role in regulating the transport of substances into and out of the cell. This semi-permeable barrier is essential for maintaining the internal environment of the cell by controlling the passage of ions, nutrients, and waste products. The membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer that features embedded proteins, which facilitate various transport mechanisms, including passive diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and active transport. Additionally, this selective permeability allows the bacterium to maintain homeostasis, ensuring that essential nutrients can enter the cell and waste products can be efficiently expelled. While the cell membrane does contribute to structural support and may interact with other structures that help to define cell shape, its primary and most vital function revolves around transport regulation. The other choices reflect functions that are not accurately attributed to the cell membrane. For instance, the storage of genetic material and facilitation of photosynthesis pertain specifically to different cellular components or mechanisms in bacteria.

The cell membrane in bacteria, also known as the cytoplasmic membrane, plays a crucial role in regulating the transport of substances into and out of the cell. This semi-permeable barrier is essential for maintaining the internal environment of the cell by controlling the passage of ions, nutrients, and waste products. The membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer that features embedded proteins, which facilitate various transport mechanisms, including passive diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and active transport.

Additionally, this selective permeability allows the bacterium to maintain homeostasis, ensuring that essential nutrients can enter the cell and waste products can be efficiently expelled. While the cell membrane does contribute to structural support and may interact with other structures that help to define cell shape, its primary and most vital function revolves around transport regulation. The other choices reflect functions that are not accurately attributed to the cell membrane. For instance, the storage of genetic material and facilitation of photosynthesis pertain specifically to different cellular components or mechanisms in bacteria.