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Multiple Choice
In what way does cholesterol influence the cell membrane?
A
It stabilizes membrane fluidity across temperature changes.
B
It makes the membrane impermeable to all substances.
C
It increases membrane fluidity at high temperatures.
D
It decreases membrane fluidity at low temperatures.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of the cell membrane: The cell membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, with embedded proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol molecules.
Learn about cholesterol's role in the membrane: Cholesterol is interspersed within the phospholipid bilayer and plays a crucial role in modulating the fluidity of the membrane.
Explore how cholesterol stabilizes membrane fluidity: Cholesterol helps maintain membrane fluidity by preventing the fatty acid chains of phospholipids from packing too closely together, especially at low temperatures.
Consider the effect of temperature changes: At high temperatures, cholesterol helps to prevent the membrane from becoming too fluid, while at low temperatures, it prevents the membrane from becoming too rigid.
Conclude the influence of cholesterol: Cholesterol stabilizes membrane fluidity across temperature changes, ensuring the membrane remains functional and semi-permeable under various conditions.