In the fluid mosaic model of a typical plasma membrane,what accounts for the fluidity?
A) the proteins, being large, cause the membrane to jiggle around.
B) the phospholipids collectively form a jelly-like substance similar to the cytoplasm.
C) the phospholipids are not bonded to each other and thus are more free to move around.
D) water molecules infiltrate the bilayer causing it to become more watery and thus more fluid.
E) the phospholipids in a typical plasma membrane form covalent bonds which are elastic and allow the membrane to 'stretch'.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fluidity of the plasma membrane is due to the fact that the phospholipids are not bonded to each other and can move freely in the bilayer, similar to a fluid. The proteins in the membrane also contribute to the fluidity, but to a lesser extent. Water molecules do not penetrate the bilayer as they are repelled by the hydrophobic tails of the phospholipids. Covalent bonds between phospholipids are not elastic and do not allow for stretching of the membrane.

In the Fluid Mosaic Model of a Typical Plasma Membrane,what