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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about biological membranes is false?
A
Biological membranes are composed of a phospholipid bilayer.
B
Proteins embedded in the membrane can move laterally within the lipid bilayer.
C
All biological membranes are impermeable to ions and polar molecules.
D
Cholesterol molecules increase the fluidity of the membrane at low temperatures.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of biological membranes: Biological membranes are primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, which forms the basic structural framework.
Recognize the role of proteins in membranes: Proteins embedded in the membrane can indeed move laterally within the lipid bilayer, contributing to the fluid mosaic model of membrane structure.
Evaluate the permeability of membranes: Biological membranes are selectively permeable, meaning they allow certain substances to pass through while blocking others. Ions and polar molecules typically require specific transport proteins to cross the membrane.
Consider the role of cholesterol: Cholesterol molecules are known to modulate membrane fluidity. At low temperatures, cholesterol increases fluidity by preventing the fatty acid chains of the phospholipids from packing too closely together.
Identify the false statement: Based on the understanding of membrane permeability, the statement 'All biological membranes are impermeable to ions and polar molecules' is false, as membranes are selectively permeable and can allow these molecules to pass through with the help of transport proteins.