The Question is from neet-botany , and it was created by the author Mr. NARESH KUMAR K

Question

Which component of the cell membrane is primarily responsible for its selective permeability?

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Cell membrane structure and function
 **Related Topics**: Phospholipids, membrane transport, selective permeability, fluid mosaic model
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of cell biology and chemistry.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
  The question asks about the component responsible for selective permeability of the cell membrane.
  Options: Glycoproteins, peripheral proteins, phospholipid bilayer, cholesterol.
**Method & Steps**:
 1. Understand selective permeability:  Selective permeability means the membrane allows certain substances to pass through while restricting others. This is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis.
  Reasoning: The membrane's ability to selectively allow passage depends on the structure of the membrane itself.
  Formula/Rule: None directly applicable.
 2. Analyze the components:
  Working: 
            * Glycoproteins: Involved in cell recognition and signaling, not directly responsible for selective permeability.
            * Peripheral proteins: Associated with the membrane but not embedded within it; some contribute to transport, but not the primary barrier.
            * Phospholipid bilayer: Forms the basic structure of the membrane, with a hydrophobic core that restricts the passage of many substances. This is the main barrier.
            * Cholesterol: Modulates membrane fluidity, affecting permeability indirectly, but not the primary selective barrier.
  Key Point: The hydrophobic nature of the phospholipid bilayer's core is key to its selective permeability.
 3. Identify the primary component:
  Result: The phospholipid bilayer is the primary component responsible for selective permeability.
  Verification: The hydrophobic core of the bilayer prevents the free passage of polar and charged molecules, while small, nonpolar molecules can diffuse across more easily.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: Glycoproteins are important for cell recognition and signaling, but not the primary determinant of selective permeability.
B :x: Peripheral proteins are associated with the membrane but do not form the primary barrier to selective permeability.
C ✓: The phospholipid bilayer's hydrophobic core is the main reason for the cell membrane's selective permeability.
D :x: Cholesterol affects membrane fluidity, which indirectly affects permeability, but it's not the primary component responsible for selective permeability.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing the roles of different membrane components: Students might confuse the functions of glycoproteins, peripheral proteins, and cholesterol with the primary function of the phospholipid bilayer in selective permeability.
  How to avoid: Focus on the hydrophobic nature of the phospholipid bilayer and how it restricts the passage of certain molecules.
  2.Overlooking the hydrophobic core's importance: Students might underestimate the role of the hydrophobic core in restricting passage of polar molecules.
  How to avoid: Remember that “like dissolves like,” and the hydrophobic core repels polar molecules.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Think of the phospholipid bilayer as a gatekeeper: It decides what can and cannot pass through the membrane.
  2.Remember the hydrophobic core: The hydrophobic interior is the key to selective permeability.

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Glycoproteins

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Peripheral proteins

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The correct Option is "Phospholipid bilayer"

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Cholesterol

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