How does the cell membrane in the diagram above help to maintain the health of this cell?

The cell membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of cells and organelles. In this way, it is selectively permeable to ions and organic molecules.

Final answer:

The cell membrane maintains the cell's health by forming a barrier that controls which materials can enter or exit, changing shape when necessary, and enabling cell recognition.

Explanation:

The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of a cell. It serves as a barrier, separating the inside of the cell from its external environment and regulating which materials can enter or exit the cell. It is built from a phospholipid bilayer, with the hydrophobic internal lipid 'tails' and hydrophilic external phosphate 'heads'.

This cell membrane is selectively permeable, meaning it allows certain substances to pass through while keeping others out. It achieves this via different transport mechanisms, including passive (non-energy requiring) and active (energy-requiring), depending on the material. It's also flexible to allow changes in the cell's shape, particularly important in the case of red and white blood cells.

Another critical function is the handling of cell recognition. The outer surface of the membrane carries markers for this cause, essential in forming tissues and organs during development and later distinguishing 'self' from 'non-self' in the immune response.

Learn more about Cell Membrane here:

brainly.com/question/13524386

#SPJ3