Carbohydrates are present in the plasmalemma in the form of

Options

A. Hemicellulose
B. Cellulose
C. Starch
D. Glycoprotein

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Plasma Membrane**: The plasma membrane, also known as the plasmalemma, is a lipid bilayer that surrounds the cell. It consists of hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.

2. **Components of the Plasma Membrane**: The plasma membrane is primarily composed of lipids and proteins. There are three types of proteins:
- **Integral proteins**: Embedded within the membrane.
- **Peripheral proteins**: Located on the outer surface of the membrane.
- **Transmembrane proteins**: Span the entire width of the membrane.

3. **Role of Carbohydrates**: Carbohydrates are also present in the plasma membrane and play a crucial role in cell recognition and signaling.

4. **Identifying the Form of Carbohydrates**: The question asks in what form carbohydrates are present in the plasma membrane. The options given are:
- Hemicellulose
- Cellulose
- Starch
- Glycoprotein

5. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Hemicellulose**: A carbohydrate found in plant cell walls, not in the plasma membrane of animal cells.
- **Cellulose**: A structural component of plant cell walls, not found in animal cell membranes.
- **Starch**: A storage form of carbohydrates in plants, not a component of the plasma membrane.
- **Glycoprotein**: A molecule consisting of a protein with carbohydrate chains attached, commonly found in the plasma membrane, aiding in cell recognition and communication.

6. **Conclusion**: The carbohydrates in the plasma membrane are primarily in the form of glycoproteins. Therefore, the correct answer is glycoprotein.

**Final Answer**: Glycoprotein

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