The membrane needs to remain __________ so that it can expand as cells grow larger and so proteins needed for solute transport can be inserted into the membrane.
A) rigid
B) warm
C) fluid
D) hypertonic
E) polarized

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The term "fluid" refers to the fluidity or flexibility of the lipid bilayer of the membrane. This fluidity is necessary for the membrane to expand as cells grow larger and for proteins needed for solute transport to be inserted into it. If the membrane were rigid, it would not be able to expand or undergo necessary changes. If the membrane were hypertonic, it would mean that the solute concentration is too high, which is not relevant to this question. If the membrane were warm, it would not affect its fluidity unless it was heated to a damaging temperature. Polarization also does not affect the fluidity of the membrane. Therefore, option C is the best choice.

The Membrane Needs to Remain __________ So That It Can