Question

why is the plasma membrane called a selectively permeable membrane​

Answer 1

Answer:

The plasma membrane is called a selectively permeable membrane as it permits the movement of only certain molecules in and out of the cells. ... It allows hydrophobic molecules and small polar molecules diffuse through the lipid layer, but does not allow ions and large polar molecules cannot diffuse through the membrane.

Answer 2

Answer:

Plasma membrane allows passage of some selected substances (ions and molecules) in and out of the cell whereas on the other hand it also blocks some molecules to enter it. Hence it is called a selectively permeable membrane.