Question

Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given.
Which of the following factors would tend to increase membrane fluidity?

• A. A greater proportion of unsaturated phospholipids
• B. A high membrane potential
• C. A lower temperature
• D. A lower cholesterol concentration in the membrane

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

A greater proportion of unsaturated phospholipids

The fluidity of the phospholipid bilayer depends on different factors like the length of the fatty acid chain, the temperature, the cholesterol content, and the level of saturation in the layer. As the amount or number of unsaturated fatty acids increases in the bilayer, so does the fluidity.

So, the correct answer is 'A greater proportion of unsaturated phospholipids'.