Fluid Mosaic Model
The Fluid Mosaic Model describes the structure of cell membranes, illustrating how they are flexible and dynamic. According to this model, the membrane is composed of a double layer of phospholipids with proteins embedded within it. These proteins can move laterally, creating a "mosaic" appearance, which allows for various functions such as transport and communication.
This model emphasizes that the membrane is not rigid but fluid, enabling the cell to adapt to different environments. The arrangement of lipids and proteins is crucial for maintaining the cell's integrity and facilitating interactions with other cells and the surrounding environment, including ions, nutrients, and signals.