Why is it important that the cell membrane is highly selective?

Question

Is it to allow movement of materials in and out the cell or to prevent it?

Answer 1

The cell membrane is a semi-permeable membrane which is tasked with protecting the cell, but also controlling what can enter and exit through a process called selective permeability. There is no ranking of importance pertaining to the jobs the cell membrane is responsible for. However, the intake of nutrients, such as water, and ions, through passive and active transport are needed for the cell to carry out normal functions.

Answer 2

The selective permeability of the membrane serves both functions. It will let in nutrients or components required by the cell and it will also allow for the exocytosis of either waste or nutrients needed elsewhere. It aids in cell communication and protects the cell from lysing due to too much water intake.This is the hydrophobic region of the membrane. There really isn't one main importance of the cell membrane as you can see. It has multiple functions that aid in the viability of biological processes.