Final answer:
The most significant factor affecting membrane curvature is the differential lipid composition on the two layers of the cell membrane.
Step-by-step explanation:
The factor that will most likely affect membrane curvature is B. Differential lipid composition on the two layers. Membrane curvature can be greatly influenced by the types and distribution of lipids across the bilayer. Phospholipids, sphingolipids, glycolipids, and cholesterol contribute differently to the fluidity and shape of the membrane.
Phosphoglycerides and sphingomyelins both have hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails, and can differ in their fatty acid chain length and saturation, contributing to the curvature and fluidity when organized asymmetrically. Glycosylation of sphingosine in sphingolipids (such as in cerebrosides) and the corresponding glycolipids contribute mainly to cell recognition and surface characteristics, while phosphorylation of membrane proteins affects their function, but not necessarily the overall shape of the membrane structure. Therefore, the distribution and type of lipids between the two layers of a membrane are the primary factors affecting membrane curvature.