Concept explainers
Name three types of lipids found in cell membranes.
To determine: The three kinds of lipids present in the cell membrane.
Introduction: Cells have an outer covering known as the cell membrane. This membrane is made up of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. The ratio of lipid and protein molecules varies with the location of the cell. If the cell is present at a metabolically active location, then the membrane would have more proteins as compared to lipids. The fluid mosaic model elucidates the structure of the cell membrane.
Explanation of Solution
The cell membrane is an important component of a cell. It performs various functions. It is made up of fats, proteins, and some carbohydrates, which have a specific role in the body. Lipids present in cell membrane develop a hydrophobic barrier. There are three types of lipids found in the cell membrane. These lipids are:
- Phospholipids:
It consists of a glycerol backbone. This backbone is attached with two fatty acid chains on one side and phosphate group on the other side. The side with the phosphate group is polar and hydrophilic; whereas, the other side is non-polar and hydrophobic.
- Sphingolipids:
These lipids are also made up of fatty acid chain but are little longer than the phospholipids. The ends of the sphingolipids chain can have either phospholipids or glycolipids.
- Cholesterol:
These molecules are present between the hydrophilic ends of phospholipids. They are hydrophobic. They also make cell membrane flexible and impermeable to water.
Therefore, the three types of lipids present in cell membranes are phospholipids, sphingolipids, and cholesterol.
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Chapter 3 Solutions
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