Chapter 4, Problem 1FIB

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The plasma membrane is a biological membrane that separates the interior space of all cells from the extracellular space. It is composed of two important molecules phospholipids and proteins.

Answer to Problem 1FIB

Correct answer:

The plasma membrane is composed of two major types of molecules, phospholipids, and proteins. Which type of molecules is responsible for each of the following functions? Isolation from the surrounding: phospholipid; interaction with other cells protein.

Explanation of Solution

Plasma membrane also known as the cell membrane, it helps in physically separating the internal components of the cell from the external environment. The plasma membrane is composed of protein and phospholipids. Proteins are important because they interact with other cells and responsible for many biological activities such as selective transport of molecules.

For example, channel proteins are present in the plasma membrane which regulates the movement of substances across the membrane. Phospholipids are the most abundant lipid in the plasma membrane. These lipids are asymmetrically distributed between the two halves of the membrane bilayer.

Conclusion

The plasma membrane is composed of phospholipids and proteins, a major function of the plasma membrane is to separate the cell from the surrounding environment.