Question

Which of the following is a role of the cell membrane?

A. Producing cellular nutrients
B. Preserving cellular wastes
C. Neutralizing chemicals
D. Maintaining homeostasis

Answer 1

I would say D. Maintaining homeostasis.

Explanation:

Let's look at the options together and analyze them.

A. Producing cellular nutrients

I'm pretty sure that the only parts of the cell that produce nutrients (like proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, etc.) are the Golgi apparatus, nucleus, and the endoplasmic reticulum. So, this is not the answer.

B. Preserving cellular wastes

The lysosomes of the cell are packed with enzymes that are specialized in taking out waste of the cell. It's like a trash bin that collects things. So, this is not the answer.

C. Neutralizing chemicals

There are some buffers in cells which prevent too much acidity or alkalinity damage enzymes and proteins. Since the cell membrane is not involved in this process, I would say that this is not one of the answers.

Source: http://education.seattlepi.com/role-buffers-cells-5164.html

D. Maintaining homeostasis

Homeostasis is the tendency of an organism to stay at a stable state, and keep doing that. Since the cell membrane allows some ions and molecules to pass through but not others, it keeps doing that, so that the cell stays healthy. Not to mention, osmosis happens often through the cell, as it needs water. Active transport also happens, as the cells need other ions such as nitrates to make proteins.

Source:

https://sciencing.com/plasma-membrane-maintain-homeostasis-22808.html

Since the cell membrane is involved in the majority of the process, I would say that this is the correct answer. As always, talk with your teacher or instructor if you are still not sure. Hope it helps!