Question

Problem 22

Answer 1

Background and context

Figure: The plasma membrane fluid mosaic model describes the plasma membrane as a fluid combination of phospholipids, cholesterol, and proteins. Carbohydrates attached to lipids (glycolipids) and to proteins (glycoproteins) extend from the membrane's outward-facing surface.

Phospholipids are lipid derivatives found mostly in the plasma membrane. These amphipathic molecules give the membrane its bilayer structure. Amphiphilic (amphipathic) compounds with polar (hydrophilic) headgroups and nonpolar (hydrophobic) hydrocarbon chains, phospholipids are amphiphilic (amphipathic) molecules. Phospholipids such as sphingomyelin, phosphatidylglycerol, and phosphatidylcholine are found in the plasma membrane.