What does the fluid mosaic model describe?

The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of the cell membrane as a flexible and dynamic layer of phospholipids that incorporate various proteins. In this model, the phospholipids are arranged in a bilayer, allowing them to move laterally within the layer, contributing to the membrane's fluidity. Proteins are interspersed throughout this bilayer, enhancing functionality by serving as receptors, channels, or enzymes, which allows for a variety of cellular processes including signaling and transport. The term "mosaic" highlights how the proteins and lipids are not uniformly distributed, resulting in a diverse and complex arrangement crucial for the membrane's role in maintaining homeostasis and facilitating communication between the cell and its environment.