Fluid mosaic model — Science definition
The accepted model of the membrane as a fluid sheet in which proteins and other molecules drift about like tiles in a moving mosaic.
Where it is taught
- The Cell Membrane — Cells, Membranes & Exchange, Life Science: Biology, Grade 10
In use
In 1972 Singer and Nicolson captured the membrane's real nature in the fluid mosaic model, and both words matter.
The Cell Membrane
Questions using fluid mosaic model
Problem 1
In the fluid mosaic model, what does the word 'mosaic' describe?
- The rigid, crystal-like arrangement of phospholipids
- The colorful appearance of cells under a microscope
- The variety of proteins embedded throughout the membrane like tiles
- The way water freezes on the membrane
Answer and explanation
The variety of proteins embedded throughout the membrane like tiles
'Mosaic' refers to the patchwork of many different proteins set into the fluid phospholipid sheet.