MEMBRANES Meaning and
Definition
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Membranes are thin, flexible layers or sheets that separate and enclose various spaces or compartments within a biological system or an object. They are commonly composed of a combination of proteins and lipids, forming a selective barrier that controls the movement of substances or information between different regions.
In biology, membranes play a vital role in preserving the integrity and functionality of cells. The plasma membrane is the outermost membrane that encapsulates the entire cell, acting as a protective barrier against the external environment while regulating the passage of molecules and ions in and out of the cell. Within cells, organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum are enclosed by distinct membranes, ensuring the separation of different cellular processes and maintaining their individual environments.
Membranes also exist in non-biological systems. For instance, in chemistry, membranes are utilized in processes like filtration, where they serve as barriers that selectively allow the passage of certain molecules or particles through their porous structure. Industrial applications of membranes can be found in water filtration systems, gas separation processes, and even fuel cells.
Overall, membranes are versatile structures that provide physical boundaries, regulate transport, and compartmentalize functions in biological and non-biological systems. Their selective permeability and ability to maintain separate environments contribute to the overall organization and functionality of living organisms and technological processes.
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Etymology of MEMBRANES
The word "membranes" has its etymology from the Latin word "membrana", which means "thin skin" or "parchment". It is derived from the Latin word "membrum", which translates to "limb" or "member". The term was initially used to describe thin and flexible tissues or structures reminiscent of skin or parchment. Over time, "membranes" came to be associated with various thin covering or partitioning structures found in different biological or material contexts.
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