Final answer:
Cellular processes such as cell movement, growth, division, and more depend on the fluidity and composition of the cell membrane. Its selective permeability and intricate structure allow for substance transport and intercellular communication. The fluid mosaic model characterizes this dynamic and functional nature of the membrane.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cellular processes, including cell movement, cell growth, cell division, formation of intercellular junctions, secretion, and endocytosis, depend on the fluidity and composition of the cell membrane. The cell membrane is composed of a bilayer of phospholipids studded with proteins, some of which transport materials into or out of the cell. It plays a critical role in cell adhesion, signaling, and in maintaining the structural integrity necessary for these functions. Incorporated carbohydrates on the membrane's exterior contribute to cell identification and interactions.
The cell membrane's selective permeability is essential for maintaining the cell's internal environment and allowing communication between cells through structures like tight junctions, desmosomes, gap junctions, and plasmodesmata. Additionally, the cell membrane's attachment surface interacts with the cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix, influencing the shape, movement, and attachment of cells within tissues.
In summary, the dynamic nature of the cell membrane, described by the fluid mosaic model, is fundamental to various cellular processes. Its selective permeability facilitates transport of substances, while its complex structure enables interactions crucial for cell function and coordination within tissues.