Question

why does the study of cell membranes lead to a better understanding of cell function?
all cell functions occur in the cell membrane.
all energy transfers occur at the cell membrane.
all cell membranes contain the information for making proteins.
all materials needed for cell functions must pass through the cell membrane.

Explanation:

• Option 1: Not all cell functions occur in the membrane. Many occur in cytoplasm or organelles.
• Option 2: Energy transfers also happen in mitochondria (cellular respiration) and chloroplasts (photosynthesis).
• Option 3: DNA in nucleus (or mitochondria/chloroplasts) contains protein - making info, not membranes.
• Option 4: Cell membrane controls material entry/exit. Studying it helps understand how materials for functions (nutrients, signaling molecules) pass through.

Answer:

All materials needed for cell functions must pass through the cell membrane.