Question

he core structure of the plasma membrane is a phospholipid bilayer. Phospholipids are molecules composed of a hydrophilic head and two hydrophobic tails. In the bilayer, the hydrophilic heads face outward, interacting with the aqueous extracellular and intracellular environments, while the hydrophobic tails are oriented inward, away from water. Integral membrane proteins are embedded within the lipid bilayer. They can span the entire membrane or be partially embedded. Peripheral membrane proteins are associated with the membrane's surface. Carbohydrates are often found attached to proteins or lipids on the extracellular side of the membrane. These carbohydrate chains are involved in cell recognition, signaling, and adhesion. As for its function, the plasma membrane is selectively permeable, meaning it allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others. This property is crucial for maintaining internal cell conditions and responding to the external environment. Various proteins in the membrane facilitate the movement of ions, nutrients, and other molecules in and out of the cell. This can occur through processes such as passive diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and active transport. What is the difference between membrane proteins and transport proteins and what’s their mechanism and I would like to know what role they play in the whole cell membrane.