What is the role of cholesterol in animal plasma membranes?

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In summary, prokaryotic cells lack a defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells are more complex and have these structures. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight into chemical energy. Natural selection is a process that contributes to evolution by favoring advantageous traits in organisms. DNA contains genetic information and plays a crucial role in inheritance and genetic variation. Biodiversity is important for maintaining ecosystem balance and providing essential services such as air and water purification, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation.
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webdivx
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This question is about plasma membranes.

The molecule that acts as a temperature buffer in animal plasma membranes is:

A) Collagen
B) Phospholipid
C) Cholesterol
D) Proteins

Help is appreciated! :!)
 
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You need to show your own work before we can help you with a homework question. Which of those do you think is most likely the answer, and why?

If you have no idea at all, why don't you start out by defining each of those 4 terms for us.
 
  • #3


The correct answer is C) Cholesterol. Cholesterol is a type of lipid that is found in the plasma membrane of animal cells and helps to maintain the fluidity and stability of the membrane at different temperatures. It acts as a buffer by preventing the membrane from becoming too rigid or too fluid in response to changes in temperature. This is important for the proper functioning of the cell and its ability to maintain homeostasis. Other molecules, such as proteins, also play important roles in the plasma membrane, but cholesterol specifically acts as a temperature buffer.
 

FAQ: What is the role of cholesterol in animal plasma membranes?

What is the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells are simple, single-celled organisms that do not have a defined nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, are more complex and have a defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

What is the process of photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight into chemical energy. It involves the absorption of light by chlorophyll and the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

How does natural selection contribute to evolution?

Natural selection is a process by which organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits to their offspring. Over time, this can lead to changes in a population, resulting in evolution.

What is the role of DNA in genetics?

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, contains the genetic information that determines an organism's traits and characteristics. It is passed down from parents to offspring and plays a crucial role in inheritance and genetic variation.

What is the importance of biodiversity?

Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms in a given area. It is important because it helps maintain the balance of ecosystems and provides essential ecosystem services, such as air and water purification, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation.

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