Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
The plasma membrane is referred to as a "fluid mosaic" structure. Which of the following statements about that model is true?
A
The fluid aspect of the membrane is due to the behavior of phospholipids, and the mosaic aspect is due to the presence of carbohydrates.
B
The fluid aspect of the membrane describes its structure at normal temperatures, and the mosaic aspect describes the behavior of the membrane as the temperature is lowered.
C
The mosaic aspect of the membrane is due to the glycosylation of phospholipids on the cytoplasmic side of the membrane.
D
Only phospholipids are capable of moving in the membrane.
E
The fluid aspect of the membrane is due to the mobility of phospholipids, and embedded proteins account for the mosaic aspect.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the fluid mosaic model: The plasma membrane is described as a 'fluid mosaic' because it is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with proteins embedded within it, allowing for fluidity and a mosaic-like pattern.
Identify the fluid aspect: The fluidity of the membrane is primarily due to the movement and flexibility of the phospholipids within the bilayer. These lipids can move laterally, allowing the membrane to be dynamic and flexible.
Identify the mosaic aspect: The mosaic aspect refers to the diverse array of proteins that are embedded within or attached to the phospholipid bilayer. These proteins can move within the lipid bilayer, contributing to the mosaic appearance.
Evaluate the given statements: Analyze each statement to determine which accurately describes the fluid mosaic model. Consider the roles of phospholipids and proteins in the membrane's structure and function.
Determine the correct statement: The correct statement is that the fluid aspect of the membrane is due to the mobility of phospholipids, and the mosaic aspect is due to the presence of embedded proteins, not carbohydrates or glycosylation.