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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about cholesterol in cell membranes is correct?
A
Cholesterol is only found in the membranes of prokaryotic cells.
B
Cholesterol helps maintain membrane fluidity at varying temperatures.
C
Cholesterol is a nucleic acid involved in genetic information storage.
D
Cholesterol acts as a primary energy source for cellular respiration.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by identifying the role of cholesterol in cell membranes. Cholesterol is a lipid molecule that is primarily found in the membranes of eukaryotic cells, not prokaryotic cells. This eliminates the first option.
Step 2: Understand the function of cholesterol in maintaining membrane fluidity. Cholesterol interacts with phospholipids in the bilayer, preventing them from packing too tightly at low temperatures and restricting excessive movement at high temperatures. This helps stabilize the membrane across varying temperatures.
Step 3: Evaluate the statement that cholesterol is a nucleic acid involved in genetic information storage. Cholesterol is not a nucleic acid; it is a lipid. Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are responsible for genetic information storage, so this option is incorrect.
Step 4: Assess the claim that cholesterol acts as a primary energy source for cellular respiration. Cholesterol is not used as an energy source; instead, carbohydrates and lipids like triglycerides are the primary molecules metabolized for energy in cellular respiration. This option is also incorrect.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct statement is: 'Cholesterol helps maintain membrane fluidity at varying temperatures,' as this accurately describes its biological role in cell membranes.