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Which part of the cell structure controls the passage of materials into and out of the cell?

  1. Ribosome

  2. Golgi apparatus

  3. Nuclear membrane

  4. Plasma membrane

The correct answer is: Plasma membrane

The plasma membrane, also known as the cell membrane, is the part of the cell structure that regulates what enters and exits the cell. It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that facilitate the transport of substances. This semi-permeable nature allows the cell to maintain homeostasis by controlling the movement of ions, nutrients, and waste products. The plasma membrane's selective permeability is essential for cellular function, enabling the cell to respond to changes in its environment, communicate with other cells, and maintain internal conditions that support metabolic processes. The presence of various transport mechanisms, such as diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and active transport, allows cells to manage their internal composition effectively. In contrast, the other structures mentioned have different primary functions. Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, the Golgi apparatus plays a key role in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for secretion or use within the cell, and the nuclear membrane primarily serves to protect the nucleus and regulate the flow of materials between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.