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Multiple Choice
Which of the following factors contribute to the fluidity of the plasma membrane?
A
The presence of high protein content
B
The presence of cholesterol
C
The presence of saturated fatty acids
D
The presence of unsaturated fatty acids
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of the plasma membrane, which is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.
Recognize that fluidity in the plasma membrane is crucial for its function, allowing for the movement of proteins within the lipid bilayer and the flexibility of the cell.
Identify the role of cholesterol in the plasma membrane: it modulates fluidity by preventing the fatty acid chains of phospholipids from packing too closely together, thus maintaining membrane fluidity at various temperatures.
Differentiate between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids: saturated fatty acids have no double bonds, leading to tightly packed chains that decrease fluidity, whereas unsaturated fatty acids contain one or more double bonds, creating kinks that prevent tight packing and increase fluidity.
Conclude that the presence of cholesterol and unsaturated fatty acids are key factors that contribute to the fluidity of the plasma membrane, while high protein content and saturated fatty acids do not enhance fluidity.