Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the structure and function of the cell membrane (plasma membrane) in most cells?
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8. Membrane Structure
The Lipid Bilayer
Multiple Choice
The plasma membrane of a cell primarily consists of which of the following structural arrangements?
A
A rigid cellulose sheet reinforced by cholesterol molecules
B
A phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins (fluid mosaic model)
C
A single layer of phospholipids with proteins only on the cytosolic side
D
A protein bilayer with phospholipids embedded within it
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall the fundamental structure of the plasma membrane as described by the fluid mosaic model, which is a widely accepted concept in cell biology.
Understand that the plasma membrane is primarily composed of a double layer (bilayer) of phospholipid molecules, where each phospholipid has a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.
Recognize that proteins are embedded within this phospholipid bilayer, and these proteins can move laterally, contributing to the membrane's fluidity and functionality.
Note that cholesterol molecules are present in animal cell membranes but do not form a rigid cellulose sheet; cellulose is a component of plant cell walls, not the plasma membrane.
Conclude that the correct structural arrangement of the plasma membrane is a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins, consistent with the fluid mosaic model.
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