Explore how membranes create organelles, concentrate enzymes and substrates, isolate acidic digestion and support efficient biochemical reactions in IB Biology HL B2.2.3.
The structure of membranes allows them to carry out many functions in cells.
Discuss the use of membranes for compartmentalization in eukaryotic cells.
a. (membranes divide the cell into) organelles;
b. nucleus/chloroplast/mitochondrion is double membraned/has inner and outer membrane;
c. enzymes/substrates can be concentrated (in the small volume);
d. different/incompatible functions/processes in different organelles (so harm prevented);
e. hydrolytic/digestive enzymes held inside lysosomes/phagocytic vacuoles;
f. pH/conditions can be optimized for (each) function/process;
g. small spaces/volumes for proton gradient/concentration gradient (to develop quickly);
h. (post- transcriptional) modification of mRNA in nucleus (before it reaches the ribosome);
i. vesicles for transport/transfers;
j. nuclear membrane/envelope protects DNA/chromosomes (from the cytoplasm);
Marking guidance:
Do not award marks describing the functions of the plasma membrane.