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Draw a labelled diagram of the arrangement of the phospholipids in a plasma membrane - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 4 - 2011 - Paper 1
Question 4
Draw a labelled diagram of the arrangement of the phospholipids in a plasma membrane. The membrane of human plasma cells contains Toll-like receptors (TLR). A porti... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Draw a labelled diagram of the arrangement of the phospholipids in a plasma membrane - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 4 - 2011 - Paper 1
Step 1
Draw a labelled diagram of the arrangement of the phospholipids in a plasma membrane.
Answer
To draw a labelled diagram of phospholipids in a plasma membrane, follow these steps:
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Draw the Phospholipid Bilayer: Start by drawing two parallel lines to represent the bilayer. Each line represents a layer of phospholipids.
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Add Hydrophilic Heads: At the outer edges of the bilayer, draw circles or ovals to represent the hydrophilic heads of the phospholipids. Label these heads clearly as 'hydrophilic head'.
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Illustrate Hydrophobic Tails: Extend lines downwards from each head to represent the hydrophobic tails. Make sure to show these as two fatty acid chains pointing towards the interior of the membrane.
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Label the Parts: Clearly label the hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails. Additionally, you could include the term 'phospholipid' near the diagram for clarity.
Step 2
What is the name given to the type of secondary protein structure labelled W?
Answer
The type of secondary protein structure labelled W is known as an 'α-helix'. This structure is characterized by a coiled configuration of the polypeptide chain, stabilized by hydrogen bonds between the backbone constituents.