Multiple Choice
Why are cell membranes composed primarily of hydrophobic molecules?
6. The Membrane
Biological Membranes
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Which of the following statements concerning carbohydrates associated with the plasma membrane is correct?
A
Carbohydrates are found associated with the membranes of prokaryotic cells only.
B
The carbohydrate composition of most eukaryotic plasma membranes is quite similar.
C
Carbohydrates on the plasma membrane are typically long, complex chains of several dozen monosaccharides.
D
Carbohydrates associated with the plasma membrane are located on both surfaces of the membrane.
E
Membrane carbohydrates function primarily in cell-cell recognition.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of carbohydrates in the plasma membrane. Carbohydrates are crucial for cell-cell recognition, which is essential for immune response and tissue formation.
Recognize that carbohydrates are not exclusive to prokaryotic cells; they are present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, often as glycoproteins or glycolipids.
Note that the carbohydrate composition of eukaryotic plasma membranes can vary significantly between different cell types and organisms, contrary to the statement that they are quite similar.
Carbohydrates on the plasma membrane are typically short chains of monosaccharides, not long complex chains, and are often branched rather than linear.
Carbohydrates are located on the extracellular surface of the plasma membrane, not on both surfaces, as they are involved in interactions with the external environment.
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