Question

describe how each of the following can affect membrane fluidity: a. decreasing temperature select b. increasing temperature select c. phospholipids with unsaturated hydrocarbon chains select d. cholesterol select question 7 select the functions of membrane proteins: transport in and out of the cell cell - cell recognition maintain the cell shape

Explanation:

a. Decreasing temperature reduces the kinetic energy of membrane - component molecules, making the membrane less fluid.
b. Increasing temperature increases the kinetic energy of membrane - component molecules, making the membrane more fluid.
c. Phospholipids with unsaturated hydrocarbon chains have kinks that prevent tight packing, increasing membrane fluidity.
d. Cholesterol acts as a buffer. At high temperatures, it restricts movement and decreases fluidity; at low temperatures, it prevents tight packing and increases fluidity.
For the functions of membrane proteins: Transport in and out of the cell is a major function as they can form channels or carriers. Cell - cell recognition is also a function as some membrane proteins act as markers. Maintaining cell shape is not a primary function of membrane proteins.

Answer:

a. Membrane is less fluid
b. Membrane is more fluid
c. Membrane is more fluid
d. Acts as a buffer (increases fluidity at low temp, decreases at high temp)
Transport in and out of the cell
Cell - cell recognition