Which statements describe the cell membrane? Check all that apply.

Question

The cell membrane is very selective.
The cell membrane lets anything enter the cell.
The cell membrane lets anything leave the cell.
The cell membrane is a protective layer surrounding a cell.
The cell membrane allows waste to leave the cell.

Answer 1

The following statements accurately describe the cell membrane:

1. The cell membrane is very selective.
2. The cell membrane is a protective layer surrounding a cell.
3. The cell membrane allows waste to leave the cell.

The other two statements are incorrect:

• "The cell membrane lets anything enter the cell." is false because the cell membrane is selectively permeable, meaning it only allows certain substances to pass through.
• "The cell membrane lets anything leave the cell." is also misleading for the same reason; while it does allow many substances to exit, it is not indiscriminate.