GCEBiologyCell Structure and Organisation2023

Which of the following best describes the fluid mosaic model of the cell membrane?

AA rigid bilayer of proteins embedded in a phospholipid matrix
BA flexible bilayer of phospholipids with proteins embedded or attachedCORRECT
CA single layer of lipids with carbohydrates on the outer surface only
DA bilayer of carbohydrates with proteins floating on the surface
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Why the answer is B, and why the others tempt you.
The fluid mosaic model, proposed by Singer and Nicolson in 1972, describes the cell membrane as a flexible (fluid) phospholipid bilayer in which proteins are embedded (integral proteins) or attached to the surface (peripheral proteins). The term 'mosaic' refers to the varied distribution of these proteins. The membrane is not rigid, and carbohydrates are attached to proteins and lipids on the outer surface rather than forming the structural backbone.
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