Final answer:
Plasma membrane proteins that fully span the membrane are called integral proteins, while those that are only partially embedded on one side are named peripheral proteins. The correct options for the blanks in the student's question are (a) Integral; Peripheral.
Step-by-step explanation:
Plasma membrane proteins that span the membrane are referred to as integral proteins. These proteins play critical roles, including serving as channels or pumps to move materials into or out of the cell. Integral proteins may be completely embedded within the plasma membrane, and many are transmembrane proteins that span the entire membrane, interacting with the intracellular and extracellular environments.
On the other hand, proteins that are only partially embedded in either the cytoplasmic or extracellular side are known as peripheral proteins. Peripheral proteins are more loosely associated with the plasma membrane and can be found attached to integral proteins or to the phospholipid molecules. They may function as enzymes, facilitate cell signaling, or serve as structural attachments for the fibers of the cytoskeleton, contributing to cell structure and function.
Given these descriptions, the correct options to fill in the blanks for the student's question are (a) Integral; Peripheral.