Question

Describe the structure of a plasma membrane and state the common characteristics of a plasma membrane.

Answer 1

The plasma membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer, cholesterol, and proteins. The fluid mosaic model describes its structure as a dynamic mosaic of these components.

Step-by-step explanation:

The plasma membrane is the outer layer of a cell that separates its inner contents from the external environment. It is composed primarily of a phospholipid bilayer, which is a double layer of phospholipid molecules. The membrane also contains cholesterol and proteins that are embedded within the bilayer. The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of the plasma membrane as a fluid and dynamic mosaic of these components, allowing them to move laterally within the membrane.

Plasma membranes share common characteristics such as a thickness ranging from 5 to 10 nm, semi-permeability allowing selective passage of substances, and the dynamic nature of its components. The membrane ensures critical functions like protecting the cell's contents, regulating material transport in and out of the cell, and facilitating communication and signaling with other cells.

Answer 2

Hi!

The structure of a plasma membrane will consist of both proteins as well as lipids. This membrane is considered a boundary which will separate the living cell away from their non-living surroundings.

Then the common characteristics of this membrane could be that it is made up of two layers of phospholipids and that it has a wide variety of proteins embedded in it.

Hope I helped!
- Peaculiar