2006-08-09 18:56:29 · 8 answers · asked by jhoebbhiey R 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Semi permeable means that the cell membrane permits some molecules and prevents others. This mean that only certain molecules useful to the cell are allowed in while those which are not useful are allowed to go out. This requires some amount of energy from the cell.
However if the cell was was permeable than water from out side the cell would come in. This is because the fluid of the cell is more concentrated than the water outside. This water would seep in until the density of water inside and outside would be the same. But before this happens the cell would explode.
If the cell was non permeable than noting would come in or go out. Life would not be possible
2006-08-09 19:19:59 · answer #1 · answered by gndirkds 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Another word for semi-permeable is selectively permeable, which means the cell membrane only lets some things enter it. As you know, we (and everything else) are made up completely of cells. And you also know that we need oxygen, water and food to live. If our cells weren't semi-permeable, we'd all die! That's because our cells take in the oxygen, etc. to use it and to live! Many other processes take place inside the cell that make it necessary for the membrane to by selectively permeable, such as expelling wastes.
Also, osmosis (diffusion of water) is extremely important because that's what keeps us from getting dehydrated, since water is one thing that is allowed to pass through the membrane. Without semi-permeable cells, water wouldn't do you any good!
Hope that helps! Good luck on your homework! ;-)
2006-08-10 02:12:53 · answer #2 · answered by Jason 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Semi-permeable?
2006-08-10 02:01:56 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Semi_permeable means that some things can get through and some can't. If the membrane didn't let things in, then the cell would die of starvation.
2006-08-10 02:02:35 · answer #4 · answered by my_alias_id 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Oxygen and nutrients must be able to enter the cell. Waste products and CO2 must be able to leave the cell.
2006-08-10 02:13:25 · answer #5 · answered by Kevin H 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Because the cell will explode
2006-08-10 02:02:17 · answer #6 · answered by Ad Just 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Because it wouldn't be able to receive food and oxygen, or get rid of wastes.
2006-08-10 02:02:23 · answer #7 · answered by The Apple Chick 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Sorry, can't help you with your home work.
2006-08-10 02:00:56 · answer #8 · answered by hagren 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋