Final answer:
Lipid proteins, specifically integral proteins like channel proteins, can diffuse laterally in the lipid bilayer, allowing certain ions to pass into or out of the cell. Peripheral proteins are more loosely associated and may not move laterally as readily. Small nonpolar molecules can diffuse through the bilayer, while larger polar molecules require facilitated diffusion through transport proteins.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, lipid proteins can diffuse laterally into the lipid bilayer. The cell membrane consists of a lipid bilayer interspersed with proteins, including integral proteins and peripheral proteins. Integral proteins, which span across the hydrophobic interior of the bilayer, can move laterally within the fluid mosaic of the lipid bilayer. An example of such a protein is a channel protein, which facilitates the passage of certain ions into or out of the cell. Peripheral proteins, however, are more loosely attached to the lipid bilayer and may not diffuse laterally to the same extent. They are often connected to integral proteins or the polar head groups of phospholipids through hydrogen bonds and electrostatic forces.
Materials that can easily diffuse through the lipid bilayer include small nonpolar molecules like oxygen and carbon dioxide. Substances such as glucose require transport proteins to facilitate their movement across the bilayer, a process known as facilitated diffusion. These proteins are integral to the membrane and are a critical component of selective permeability.