Final answer:
Cell membranes consist of lipids and proteins held together by non-covalent bonds such as hydrogen bonds and electrostatic forces. Integral proteins span the membrane while peripheral proteins associate more loosely with the membrane's surface, enabling various functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Membranes are lipid-protein assemblies held together by non-covalent bonds. Proteins in the cell membrane fall under two major classes: integral proteins, which are embedded within the lipid bilayer, and peripheral proteins, which are associated more loosely with the lipid bilayer's surface.
These proteins play crucial roles such as forming channels for ions, acting as signal transducers, and serving as anchors for other molecules. Integral and peripheral proteins are typically attached to the membrane through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic forces, which help maintain the structure of the membrane without forming strong covalent bonds. These non-covalent interactions are essential as they provide flexibility and allow the proteins to retain their functionality within the membrane's environment.