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Questions and Answers
What is the composition of a phospholipid?
What is the composition of a phospholipid?
- Glycerol, three fatty acid tails, and a phosphate-linked head group
- Glycerol, two fatty acid tails, and a sulfate-linked head group
- Glycerol, two fatty acid tails, and a phosphate-linked head group (correct)
- Glycerol, one fatty acid tail, and a phosphate-linked head group
Who proposed that the plasma membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer?
Who proposed that the plasma membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer?
- Charles Overton
- E. Gorter and F. Grendel (correct)
- No one proposed this
- C. Nageli and C. Cramer
What is the role of cholesterol in the cell membrane?
What is the role of cholesterol in the cell membrane?
- It is found alongside phospholipids in the membrane (correct)
- It regulates the transportation of materials in the cell
- It is not present in the cell membrane
- It forms the semipermeable layer of the membrane
What is the term used for the arrangement of phospholipids in the cell membrane?
What is the term used for the arrangement of phospholipids in the cell membrane?
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Who suggested that the plasma membrane must be a phospholipid?
Who suggested that the plasma membrane must be a phospholipid?
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Study Notes
Phospholipid Structure
- A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (water-fearing) tail.
- The hydrophilic head contains a phosphate group, while the hydrophobic tail consists of two fatty acid chains.
Cell Membrane Composition
- The plasma membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer.
- This was proposed by Singer and Nicolson in 1972.
Cholesterol's Role in the Cell Membrane
- Cholesterol is present in the cell membrane, where it helps maintain fluidity and stability.
Phospholipid Arrangement
- The arrangement of phospholipids in the cell membrane is known as a lipid bilayer.
- In this arrangement, the hydrophilic heads face outward, while the hydrophobic tails face inward.
Historical Significance
- Gorter and Grendel suggested in 1925 that the plasma membrane must be a phospholipid.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the cell membrane structure with this quiz. Explore the composition, functions, and essential components of the double layer of lipids and proteins that surrounds a cell.
