Question

Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given.
Which statement is true about the plasma membrane?

• A. Proteins make up the matrix of the membrane
• B. Model can be likened to a sandwich where phospholipids are like the bread and proteins are like the filling
• C. Fluid nature of the membrane is regulated by flip- flopping of the phospholipids from one side of the membrane to the other
• D. Movement of proteins and phospholipids can occur sideways within the plane of the membrane

Answer 1

The correct option is D Movement of proteins and phospholipids can occur sideways within the plane of the membrane

In the fluid mosaic model, the phospholipid bilayer has integrated as well as peripheral proteins embedded in it. The integrated proteins are found on the inside and span across the bilayer, while the peripheral proteins are found at the periphery of the lipid layers. This bilayer is composed of hydrophilic phosphate heads and hydrophobic tails. Movement of proteins and phospholipids can occur sideways within the plane of the membrane.

So, the correct answer is 'Movement of proteins and phospholipids can occur sideways within the plane of the membrane'.