Final answer:
The types of fats consumed can influence the fluidity of the cell membrane because fats are integral to the structure of phospholipids, which form the bilayer of the plasma membrane.
Step-by-step explanation:
Since phospholipids help to form the plasma membrane, the types of fats we consume in our diet will influence the membrane's fluidity. The correct answer is c) Fats. Phospholipids are a major component of the plasma membrane, forming the bilayer structure that serves as the barrier between the inside of the cell and the external environment. The fluid mosaic model of the plasma membrane depicts it as a dynamic mix of phospholipids, cholesterol, proteins, and carbohydrates. Cholesterol within the membrane also contributes to its fluidity and stability.
Carbohydrates are involved in adhesion and recognition, as they can be attached to both proteins and lipids on the membrane surface, forming glycoproteins and glycolipids. Proteins aid in transport and signaling, with integral proteins acting as transporters and peripheral proteins contributing to the cell's recognition sites. Lastly, it is worth noting that the types of fatty acids in the phospholipids, such as saturated or unsaturated fats, can directly affect how fluid the membrane is.