Final answer:
"Peripheral" can have different meanings depending on the context. In geography and economics, it refers to less developed regions on the outskirts of core areas. In biology, it refers to proteins located on cell membrane surfaces. And in global economics, it refers to nations with limited development.
Step-by-step explanation:
Peripheral refers to something that is on the fringes or outskirts of a larger system or organization. In the context of geography and economics, peripheral areas are regions that are less developed and have limited access to resources and opportunities compared to the core regions. For example, in the United States, the agricultural Midwest, rural Appalachia, and certain parts of the western states are considered peripheral areas. These areas have less economic activity and are more reliant on core regions for resources and commerce.
In the context of biology, peripheral proteins are proteins that are located on the exterior or interior surfaces of cell membranes. They can be attached to integral proteins or phospholipids and play various roles such as enzymatic functions, structural attachments, or part of the cell's recognition sites.
Finally, peripheral nations refer to countries that are on the fringes of the global economy and have limited industrialization. They are often dominated by core nations and face challenges in terms of economic development.