Final answer:
The structural component of the plasma membrane that assists in transport and is activated by ATP are specific proteins. These proteins include channels and pumps, such as the sodium-potassium pump, which are essential for active transport across the cell membrane. The correct answer is B. specific proteins that are activated by ATP.
Step-by-step explanation:
The structural component of the plasma membrane that assists in transport and is activated by ATP is specific proteins. In the context of the fluid mosaic model of the cell membrane, these proteins serve as transporters to move substances into or out of the cell.
There are different types of membrane proteins involved in transport, including channel proteins that allow certain molecules to pass through without energy, and carrier proteins that change shape to move molecules across the membrane and often require ATP to function, hence referred to as active transport.
When considering active transport, transport proteins act as pumps that use energy to move substances against their concentration gradient. A well-known example is the sodium-potassium pump which is crucial for maintaining proper cell function and is powered by the hydrolysis of ATP.
Therefore, the correct option that describes the structural component of the plasma membrane that assists in transport and is activated by ATP is B. specific proteins that are activated by ATP.