Which of the following is the main component of the cell membrane?

• A. Phospholipids
• B. Nucleic acids
• C. Proteins
• D. Cholesterol

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the structure and function of the cell membrane. The cell membrane is a selectively permeable barrier that surrounds the cell, controlling the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
2. Step 2: Learn about the main components of the cell membrane. The cell membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, along with proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.
3. Step 3: Focus on the phospholipid bilayer. Phospholipids are amphipathic molecules, meaning they have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails. This property allows them to form a bilayer structure, which is the foundation of the cell membrane.
4. Step 4: Compare the roles of other components. Proteins are embedded within or attached to the phospholipid bilayer and assist in transport, signaling, and structural support. Cholesterol helps maintain membrane fluidity and stability. Nucleic acids, however, are not part of the cell membrane; they are found in the nucleus or cytoplasm and are involved in genetic information storage and transfer.
5. Step 5: Conclude that phospholipids are the main component of the cell membrane, as they form the bilayer structure that serves as the primary framework of the membrane.