Question

Which of the following statements is/are consistent with the fluid-mosaic model of membranes? (Select all that apply.) The lipid bilayer and proteins exist side by side without covalent bonds between them. The membrane interior appears granular on an electron micrograph. Integral membrane proteins span the membrane. Some proteins and lipids undergo lateral diffusion along the inner or outer surface of the membrane. Carbohydrates are covalently bonded to the outside of the membrane. None of the Above

Answer 1

The correct answers are: The lipid bilayer and proteins exist side by side without covalent bonds between them and  Some proteins and lipids undergo lateral diffusion along the inner or outer surface of the membrane

According to fluid mosaic model, there is a lipid bilayer that gives fluidity and in which the protein molecules are embedded.  

The membrane is mosaic because there is a pattern of different types of molecules that are put together. Molecules are constantly moving in two dimensions.

Components of the cell membrane include:

• Phospholipids – Form a bilayer  

• Cholesterol –improves stability and reduce fluidity

• Proteins –integral (transmembrane) or peripheral  

• Sugars-usually attached to proteins.