Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
The lipids that form the main structural component of cell membranes are __________.
A
triacylglycerols
B
proteins
C
cholesterol
D
carbohydrates
E
phospholipids
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of cell membranes: Cell membranes are primarily composed of a bilayer of lipids, which provides the fundamental structure and barrier function.
Identify the main types of lipids: The main types of lipids in cell membranes include phospholipids, cholesterol, and glycolipids.
Focus on phospholipids: Phospholipids are the most abundant lipids in the cell membrane. They have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) 'tails'.
Recognize the role of phospholipids: The amphipathic nature of phospholipids (having both hydrophilic and hydrophobic parts) allows them to form a bilayer, with the hydrophobic tails facing inward and the hydrophilic heads facing outward, creating a stable barrier in an aqueous environment.
Conclude that phospholipids are the main structural component: Given their abundance and structural role in forming the bilayer, phospholipids are the primary structural component of cell membranes.