Which of the following statements is true of the fluid mosaic model of membranes?
A) Membranes have proteins present only on the outer surface.
B) The complex lipids that make up membranes are distributed evenly.
C) The fluidity of membranes increases with an increase in unsaturated fatty acids.
D) It is impossible to determine the degree of fluidity of membranes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fluid mosaic model of membranes states that membranes are composed of a phospholipid bilayer that has a fluid consistency due to the movement of the fatty acid chains. The degree of fluidity is influenced by the saturation of the fatty acid chains, as unsaturated chains create kinks that prevent close packing of the lipids and increase their movement. Therefore, option C is correct. Option A is incorrect because proteins are embedded within the membrane, not only on the outer surface. Option B is incorrect because membranes are not made up of complex lipids that are distributed evenly. Option D is incorrect because the fluidity of membranes can be determined experimentally.

Which of the Following Statements Is True of the Fluid