Chapter 3.3, Problem 1CYU

Summary Introduction

To write:

Both the small water-soluble substances and highly lipid-soluble substances of any size possess the tendency to permeate through the plasma membrane without any help.

Introduction:

Any substance that passes between cells and the enveloping extracellular fluid must possess the tendency to pass through the plasma membrane. If a component can pass through the membrane, the membrane is considered permeable for that component. However, in case if the component cannot pass, then the membrane is considered impermeable to it. The plasma membrane possesses the tendency of selective permeability, that is, it allows some of the particles to go through while inhibiting the others.