Textbook Question
Think carefully about the chemistry of the plasma membrane, and then answer this question: Why is minor damage to the membrane usually not a problem?
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2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components
Biological Membranes
Multiple Choice
The fluid mosaic model of the membrane proposed that membranes:
A
Consist of a single layer of phospholipids and proteins.
B
Consist of a phospholipid bilayer composed of a variety of fatty acids.
C
Consist of protein molecules embedded in a dynamic bilayer of phospholipids.
D
Consist of a phospholipid bilayer between two layers of hydrophilic proteins.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the fluid mosaic model: It describes the structure of cell membranes as a dynamic arrangement of phospholipids and proteins.
Recognize that the membrane is not a single layer but a bilayer, meaning it has two layers of phospholipids.
Identify that proteins are embedded within this phospholipid bilayer, allowing for flexibility and movement, which is why it's termed 'mosaic'.
Note that the phospholipid bilayer is composed of hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails, creating a semi-permeable membrane.
Conclude that the correct description of the fluid mosaic model is that it consists of protein molecules embedded in a dynamic bilayer of phospholipids, allowing for fluidity and diverse functionality.
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