The basic structure of all cell membranes is the same
Every cell membrane — whether surrounding a cell or enclosing an organelle — shares the same basic structure. A double layer of fat-based molecules forms the core, with proteins embedded throughout.
Real World
The inner mitochondrial membrane and the plasma membrane of a red blood cell look structurally different under electron microscopy, yet both share the same phospholipid bilayer foundation.
Exam Focus
Use the phrase 'phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins' as a baseline answer whenever a question asks you to describe membrane structure.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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