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Multiple Choice
Which of the following terms can be correctly used to describe compounds that do not mix with water?
A
phospholipids
B
hydrophilic
C
proteins
D
hydrogen-bonded
E
hydrophobic
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the term 'hydrophobic': In biology, 'hydrophobic' refers to molecules or substances that do not interact well with water. These substances tend to repel water and do not dissolve in it.
Identify the characteristics of hydrophobic compounds: Hydrophobic compounds are typically nonpolar, meaning they do not have a charge distribution that allows them to interact with water molecules, which are polar.
Analyze the given options: Review each term provided in the problem to determine if it describes a compound that does not mix with water.
Evaluate 'phospholipids': Phospholipids have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts. The hydrophobic tails do not mix with water, but the term 'phospholipids' alone does not specifically mean hydrophobic.
Conclude with the correct term: The term 'hydrophobic' directly describes compounds that do not mix with water, making it the correct choice among the options provided.