Form boundaries around cells and organelles.
Form boundaries around cells and organelles.
Control the movement of substances in and out.
Site of many metabolic reactions.
Involved in cell communication and recognition.
Examiner Tip
When asked about the importance of membranes, think beyond just 'controlling what goes in and out' – consider compartmentalisation, reaction sites, and signalling.
The evolution of membranes was a critical step in the origin of life, allowing for the formation of distinct cellular compartments and the development of complex biochemical pathways.
