Question

One way that membrane surface area is increased in absorptive cells is through increasing the ________ of the apical membrane.

A) receptor number

B) thickness

C) number of protein channels

D) folding

E) number of protein carriers

Answer 1

The surface area of absorptive cells is increased by the folding of the apical membrane, specifically through microvilli, which allows for a greater rate of diffusion and more efficient nutrient absorption.

Step-by-step explanation:

One way that membrane surface area is increased in absorptive cells is through increasing the folding of the apical membrane. The answer to the provided question is D) folding. Increased surface area is crucial for cells that are involved in absorption, such as those lining the small intestine.

Microvilli are microscopic cellular membrane protrusions that increase the surface area of cells, allowing for more efficient absorption of nutrients. In contrast, an increase in the thickness of the plasma membrane would reduce the rate of diffusion, which is not beneficial for absorptive cells.