How are membranes classified according to their permeability?

An impermeable membrane is one through which no substance can pass. Semipermeable membranes are those which only let solvents, such as water, pass through them. Permeable membranes are those which let solvents and solutes, such as ions and molecules, to pass through them. There are also selectively permeable membranes, which are membranes that, in addition to allowing the passage of solvents, let specific solutes pass through while blocking others.

AM
Answered by Adam M. Biology tutor

5027 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What role does the heart play in the circulation of blood around the body?


Name a substance that can be transported across a membrane by simple diffusion and explain why it is able to be transported by this method.


Why could a single base mutation stop an enzyme from catalysing a reaction?


Describe 3 adaptations the ileum has that allow it to maximise the absorption of nutrients from its lumen into surrounding blood vessels.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning