The eukaryotic cell's glycocalyx is
A)mostly polysaccharide.
B)the site where many metabolic reactions occur.
C)also called the cell wall.
D)composed of many diverse proteins.
E)protection against osmotic lysis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The glycocalyx is mostly composed of polysaccharides, which are carbohydrate molecules made up of monosaccharide units. It serves as a protective layer around the cell membrane and also plays a role in cell-cell recognition and communication.

Answer: E
 The glycocalyx helps protect the cell against osmotic lysis by creating an osmotic barrier around the cell that prevents the cell from swelling and ultimately bursting due to the influx of water. This is particularly important in cells that are exposed to hypotonic environments, where there is a higher concentration of solutes outside the cell than inside.

The Eukaryotic Cell's Glycocalyx Is