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Multiple Choice
Which component of a phospholipid is found in the interior of a lipid bilayer?
A
Glycerol backbone
B
Hydrophilic phosphate group
C
Choline head group
D
Hydrophobic fatty acid tails
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of a phospholipid: A phospholipid consists of a glycerol backbone, two fatty acid tails, and a phosphate group attached to a choline head group.
Recognize the amphipathic nature of phospholipids: They have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts.
Identify the hydrophilic components: The phosphate group and choline head group are hydrophilic, meaning they are attracted to water and will orient themselves towards the aqueous environment.
Identify the hydrophobic components: The fatty acid tails are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water and will orient themselves away from the aqueous environment.
Determine the arrangement in a lipid bilayer: In a lipid bilayer, the hydrophobic fatty acid tails face inward, away from water, forming the interior of the bilayer, while the hydrophilic phosphate groups and choline head groups face outward, interacting with the aqueous environment.