Read the following statements regarding the structure and function of the cell membrane: A. The quasi-fluid nature of lipid enables lateral movement of proteins within the overall bilayer. B. The ratio of protein and lipid remains constant in the plasma membranes of different cell types. C. The non-polar tail of membrane lipids is made up of saturated hydrocarbons. D. Peripheral membrane proteins are partially or tot

Step-by-step solution

Statement A is correct. According to the fluid mosaic model proposed by Singer and Nicolson, the quasi-fluid nature of lipids enables the lateral movement of proteins within the overall bilayer. Statement B is incorrect. The ratio of protein and lipid varies considerably in the plasma membranes of different cell types. For example, the erythrocyte membrane has approximately 52 % protein and 40 % lipids. Statement C is correct. The lipids are arranged within the membrane with the polar head towards the outer sides a