Question

the cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, separates the inside of the cell from the outside environment. it is a semipermeable barrier.
the latin prefix semi- means half, and permeable means having pores or openings that substances can pass through.
what is the significance of a semipermeable cell membrane?
the cell membrane only allows certain substances to enter or leave the cell.
the cell membrane allows all substances to enter or leave the cell.
the cell membrane does not allow any substances to enter or leave the cell.

Explanation:

To determine the significance of a semipermeable cell membrane, we analyze the meaning of "semipermeable". The prefix "semi - " means half, and "permeable" means having pores for substances to pass through. So a semipermeable membrane should allow only certain substances (not all, not none) to enter or leave the cell. The first option matches this, the second is incorrect as it says all substances, and the third is incorrect as it says no substances.

Answer:

A. The cell membrane only allows certain substances to enter or leave the cell.