The protein that gives red blood cells their flexibility and shape is: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Explanation:
The Fluid Mosaic Model is the universally accepted model for the structure of the plasma membrane. It was proposed by S. Jonathan Singer and Garth Nicolson in 1972. It describes the membrane as a dynamic, fluid lipid bilayer in which globular proteins are embedded (integral) or attached to the surface (peripheral), creating a 'mosaic' pattern. The lipids and proteins can move laterally within the plane of the membrane. Danielli and Davson proposed the earlier 'sandwich model'.

Explanation:
Nitrification is a two-step process in the nitrogen cycle where ammonia is oxidized to nitrates. First, ammonia (NH3) is converted to nitrites (NO2-) by bacteria like Nitrosomonas. Then, nitrites are converted to nitrates (NO3-) by bacteria like Nitrobacter. Nitrates are the primary form of nitrogen absorbed by plants. Denitrification is the reverse process, converting nitrates back to nitrogen gas.

Explanation:
Robert Hooke, an English scientist, is credited with the discovery of cells in 1665. He observed a thin slice of dead cork tissue from an oak tree under a primitive compound microscope. He saw a honeycomb-like structure of small compartments, which he called 'cells' (from the Latin 'cella', meaning small room). He was actually observing the non-living cell walls of dead plant cells.