Which of the following components contributes to the fluid mosaic model of biological membranes?

• A. Phospholipids
• B. Chitin
• C. Starch
• D. Cellulose

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the fluid mosaic model: It describes the structure of cell membranes as a mosaic of components that gives the membrane a fluid character.
2. Identify the key components of the fluid mosaic model: These include phospholipids, proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.
3. Recognize the role of phospholipids: They form a bilayer that serves as the fundamental structure of the membrane, providing fluidity and flexibility.
4. Differentiate between the options: Chitin, starch, and cellulose are polysaccharides, but they are not components of the cell membrane. Chitin is found in fungal cell walls, starch is a storage form of glucose in plants, and cellulose is a structural component of plant cell walls.
5. Conclude that phospholipids are the correct answer as they are integral to the fluid mosaic model, forming the lipid bilayer of biological membranes.