The role of the cholesterol molecules (pink) in the phospholipid bilayer can best be described by what statement?
A) Cholesterol molecules allow ions to pass freely through the membrane.
B) Cholesterol molecules maintain fluidity and integrity of the membrane.
C) Cholesterol molecules allow water to pass freely through the membrane.
D) Cholesterol molecules allow proteins to be actively transported through the membrane.

The role of the cholesterol molecules in the phospholipid bilayer can best be described as cholesterol molecules maintain fluidity and integrity of the membrane.

Explanation:

Cholesterol is a component of the cell membranes, the content of which is almost a quarter of the lipid composition of this structure.

The number of cholesterol molecules in the lipid bilayer represents a barrier that prevents substances from passing through it, and one of its most important functions is to collaborate with the organization of the fatty acids that form part of each layer, preventing their tails from fusing, which guarantees the fluidity and integrity of the membrane.

Learn more:

Major components of cell membranes link