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What is the function of the plasma membrane?
Which microscope is required to resolve the plasma membrane?
What is the structure of the lipid bilayer in the plasma membrane?
Which model describes the structure of the plasma membrane as a bimolecular layer sandwiched between two protein layers?
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What does the term 'fluid mosaic' in the fluid mosaic model refer to?
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What is the thickness of the plasma membrane as mentioned in the text?
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Which model describes the structure of the plasma membrane as a bimolecular layer sandwiched between two protein layers?
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What is the function of the plasma membrane according to the text?
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In the fluid mosaic model, what does the term 'fluid' refer to?
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What type of bonds do the polar 'water-soluble' heads of phospholipids form with water, as mentioned in the text?
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Which model of plasma membrane structure proposed that lipid bilayer is interrupted by pores allowing penetration of non-lipid substances into the cell?
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What is the thickness of the plasma membrane?
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What is the function of the plasma membrane?
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What do the 'fluid' and 'mosaic' in the fluid mosaic model refer to?
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What is the location of the polar 'water-soluble' heads of the phospholipid molecules in the lipid bilayer of the plasma membrane?
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Study Notes
Function of the Plasma Membrane
- Regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, maintaining homeostasis.
- Provides protection and structural support to the cell.
Microscopy
- An electron microscope is required to resolve the plasma membrane due to its thinness.
Structure of the Lipid Bilayer
- Composed of two layers of phospholipids with hydrophobic tails oriented inward and hydrophilic heads facing outward.
- The arrangement allows the plasma membrane to be selectively permeable.
Models of Plasma Membrane Structure
- The Fluid Mosaic Model illustrates the plasma membrane as a bimolecular layer sandwiched between protein layers.
- The Unit Membrane Model also describes the membrane structure in a similar sandwiched configuration.
Fluid Mosaic Model
- The term "fluid" refers to the ability of lipids and proteins to move laterally within the layer, contributing to membrane flexibility.
- "Mosaic" describes the diversity of proteins that float within or on the lipid bilayer, resembling a mosaic pattern.
Thickness of the Plasma Membrane
- The thickness of the plasma membrane is approximately 7 to 10 nanometers.
Bonds of Phospholipid Heads
- The polar 'water-soluble' heads of phospholipids form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, stabilizing the membrane structure.
Pore Interruption Model
- The Fluid Mosaic Model recognizes pores in the lipid bilayer, allowing the penetration of non-lipid soluble substances into the cell.
Location of Phospholipid Heads
- The polar 'water-soluble' heads are located on the outer and inner surfaces of the lipid bilayer, interacting with the aqueous environment.
Summary of Fluid Mosaic Model Components
- The 'fluid' aspect allows movement within the membrane, while the 'mosaic' highlights the variety of embedded proteins that contribute to functionality.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the plasma membrane in cell biology with this quiz. Explore its structure, composition, and functions, and learn about its significance in cellular biology.
