12 Questions
What molecules are the constituents of biological membranes?
Lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates
Why do lipids establish the physical integrity of the membrane?
To create a barrier for hydrophobic materials
What model describes the general design of biological membranes?
Fluid mosaic model
Which part of a phospholipid interacts with the aqueous environment?
Charged, hydrophilic heads
What is a characteristic of some membranes with regard to protein content?
Some membranes have more protein than lipids
Which molecule forms the hydrophobic core of the membrane?
Lipids
What is the thickness of a biological membrane, as mentioned in the text?
0.008 μm
In a biological membrane, what makes for a less dense and more fluid packing of the fatty acids in the lipid bilayer?
Unsaturated fatty acids with 'kinks'
Which component is important for membrane integrity and modulates membrane fluidity according to the text?
Cholesterol
What effect does having shorter-chain fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acids, or less cholesterol have on membrane fluidity?
Increases fluidity
Why is spontaneous phospholipid flip-flop from one half of the bilayer to the other rare?
Due to the movement of the polar part through the hydrophobic interior
How does temperature affect membrane fluidity?
Increases fluidity
Test your knowledge on the physical organization and functioning of biological membranes, focusing on lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. Explore the role of lipids in establishing membrane integrity and creating a barrier to the passage of hydrophilic materials.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
