Answer – The fluid mosaic model characterizes the cell membrane as a dynamic structure primarily comprising a phospholipid bilayer and embedded proteins in a mosaic-like appearance.
Explanation:
S.J. Singer and Garth L. Nicolson first proposed this model in 1972. The cell membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with a thickness of approximately 5–10 nanometers (nm). It is a double layer of lipid molecules with hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads facing outward and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails facing inward, creating a barrier for substances traveling in and outside of a cell. Thus, the model provides selective permeability (semi-permeability) and flexibility to a cell.
Within this bilayer are proteins, glycoproteins, glycolipids, and sterols embedded, thus forming a mosaic, hence, the name of the model is the “fluid mosaic model.” These proteins are integral to the membrane’s role in cellular communication and regulation.
Image credit: Laboratoires Servier / Wikimedia Commons (licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0)
Popular Questions
Textbook Solutions
- In China, one "fen" is defined as 3.3 millimeters [mm]. Ten nanometers [nm] is the thickness of a cell membrane. Convert 10 nanometers [nm] to unit...
- Add another lightbulb to the circuit with one battery described in Problem 19.5. In how many different ways can you connect the second bulb? What d...