Question

According to the fluid mosaic model of the cell membrane, the proteins are located

• A. On the surface of the membrane.
• B. Buried in the membrane
• C. Between lipid bilayer
• D. Both A and B

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Both A and B

The correct option is D.

Explanation of correct option:

1. Fluid Mosaic model describes the structure of the cell membrane was proposed by S.J. Singer and Garth L. Nicolson.
2. According to this model, the cell membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer in which proteins are embedded.
3. The quasi-fluid nature of the phospholipids allows lateral diffusion of lipids and proteins across the membrane.
4. There are two types of proteins present in the membrane - peripheral and integral.
5. Peripheral proteins are located on the surface of the cell membrane, whereas integral proteins are partially or completely buried in the cell membrane.

Explanation of incorrect option:

Option A:

1. Membrane proteins are of two types- peripheral and integral.
2. Among them, peripheral proteins are located on the surface of the cell membrane.

Option B:

Among peripheral and integral membrane proteins, integral proteins are buried in the membrane.

Option C:

The proteins remain outside or inside of the lipid bilayer.

Final answer: According to the fluid mosaic model of the cell membrane, the proteins are located on the surface as well as buried in the membrane.