Which one of the following molecules is able to move across the cell membrane by simple diffusion?

A. Carbohydrates and fats are converted to ATP, while proteins are used to make molecules for the cell.

B. All of the proteins were converted to ATP, while the fats and carbohydrates were used to make molecules for the cell.

C. All of the fats and proteins were converted to ATP, while the carbohydrates were used to make molecules for the cell.

D. All of the carbohydrates were converted to ATP, while the fats and proteins were used to make molecules for the cell.
Correct Answer

E. Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins may be converted to ATP or used to make molecules for the cell.

What molecule moves across the cell membrane easily?

Small hydrophobic molecules and gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide cross membranes rapidly. Small polar molecules, such as water and ethanol, can also pass through membranes, but they do so more slowly.

What type of things does diffusion move across the cell membrane?

Some molecules, such as carbon dioxide and oxygen, can diffuse across the plasma membrane directly, but others need help to cross its hydrophobic core. In facilitated diffusion, molecules diffuse across the plasma membrane with assistance from membrane proteins, such as channels and carriers.

What are 3 examples of the molecules that can diffuse easily across the cell membrane?

Some examples of these are other lipids, oxygen and carbon dioxide gases, and alcohol. However, water-soluble materials—like glucose, amino acids, and electrolytes—need some assistance to cross the membrane because they are repelled by the hydrophobic tails of the phospholipid bilayer.