What are the molecules in the plasma membrane that provide basic membrane structure, cell identity, and membrane fluidity?
These molecules are known as phospholipids (2 fatty acid "tails" with a phosphate group "head"). Because of their charge, the phosphate groups are hydrophilic (attracted to / mix with water) while the fatty acid "tails" are hydrophobic (repel / do not mix with water), which causes them to form phospholipid bilayers.
A phospholipid bilayer makes up each cell's plasma membrane; the hydrophilic "heads" of each cell face the water-containing interiors and exteriors, while the hydrophobic "tails" face one another.
Furthermore, proteins that support cell function and act as channel proteins, protein pumps, receptors, etc. may be embedded in the plasma membrane.
I hope this is useful.
By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Phospholipids are the molecules in the plasma membrane that give the membrane its fundamental structure, cell identity, and fluidity.
By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.
When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.
When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.
When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.
- How are gap junctions formed?
- How would you explain the difference between diffusion and facilitated diffusion?
- What is the difference between receptors and ion channels of the plasma membrane? Also, can you state the function of each?
- What is the structure of a cell membrane?
- Why is energy necessary to counteract the diffusion of #Na^+# and #K^+# ions across the plasma membrane of a neuron?
![Answer Background](/cdn/public/images/tutorgpt/ai-tutor/answer-ad-bg.png)
- 98% accuracy study help
- Covers math, physics, chemistry, biology, and more
- Step-by-step, in-depth guides
- Readily available 24/7