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Multiple Choice
What property makes phospholipids ideal building blocks for cell membranes?
A
They are completely hydrophilic, attracting water.
B
They are amphipathic, having both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions.
C
They are rigid and inflexible, providing structural support.
D
They are completely hydrophobic, repelling water.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of phospholipids: Phospholipids consist of a glycerol backbone, two fatty acid tails, and a phosphate group attached to an additional polar group.
Recognize the amphipathic nature: Phospholipids have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts. The phosphate group and its attachments form the hydrophilic 'head,' while the fatty acid chains form the hydrophobic 'tails.'
Relate structure to function: The amphipathic nature allows phospholipids to form bilayers in aqueous environments, with hydrophobic tails facing inward, shielded from water, and hydrophilic heads facing outward, interacting with water.
Consider the role in cell membranes: This bilayer arrangement is crucial for forming the cell membrane, providing a semi-permeable barrier that separates the cell's interior from the external environment.
Conclude why amphipathic nature is ideal: The ability to form bilayers and create a stable yet flexible membrane structure is why phospholipids are ideal building blocks for cell membranes.