A researcher is studying the transport of a novel molecule across a synthetic lipid bilayer. They observe that the molecule moves down its concentration gradient without the need for any membrane proteins or energy input. However, the rate of transport is significantly slower than predicted for simple diffusion. Which of the following BEST explains this observation?
The molecule is very large and its size restricts diffusion through the membrane.
The molecule is charged and is repelled by the hydrophobic core of the bilayer.
The molecule is polar and its passage is hindered by the hydrophobic core of the bilayer.
The molecule is binding to a specific receptor on the membrane surface, slowing its diffusion.
Related Questions
Select the incorrect statement about plasma membrane
It is selectively permeable.
It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer.
It contains proteins.
It is primarily composed of carbohydrates.
The thickness of unit membrane is
20Å
35Å
55Å
75Å
Plasma membrane is made up of
Lipid, protein and water
Lipid, protein and manganese
Lipid and carbohydrate
Lipid, protein and carbohydrates
Fluid mosaic model was given by
Beadle and Tatum
Jacob and Monod
Singer and Nicolson
Watson and Crick
Cell membrane is made up of
Protein
Cellulose
Lipids
Lipids, carbohydrates and protein
Lipid molecules in plasma membrane are arranged in which manner?
Scattered
Series
Alternate
Head parallel
The thickness of unit membrane is
The thickness of unit membrane is
Select the incorrect statement about plasma membrane
It is selectively permeable.
It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer.
It contains cholesterol in animal cells.
It is a static structure.
According to Singer and Nicolson model of cell membrane
The quasi-fluid nature of lipid enables lateral movement of protein within over all bilayer
The quasi-fluid nature of protein enables lateral movement of lipid
Peripheral proteins are totally buried in the phospholipid bilayer
Tunnel proteins lie on the surface of cell membrane
