What is a consequence of the fact that the plasma membrane is described as 'fluid'?
Group of answer choices
It is hydrophilic and can dissolve in water
Embedded proteins aren't stuck in place
The plasma membrane cannot freeze
It is made of cellulose, which can dissolve in water
The plasma membrane cannot change shape
Answer
Embedded proteins aren't stuck in place
Explanation
The primary function of the plasma membrane is to protect the cell from the extracellular components. The protection is provided by a lipid bilayer that has embedded proteins (integral proteins) which span all or part of the membrane. The embedded proteins are not stuck in the membrane, but are free moving into or out of the bilayer to facilitate transport of substances and regulate its fluidity with change in temperatures.
Reference
Singer, S. Jonathan, and Garth L. Nicolson. "The fluid mosaic model of the structure of cell membranes." Science 175.4023 (1972): 720-731.
