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Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules can freely pass through the phospholipid bilayer due to their solubility properties?
A
Oxygen (O2)
B
Water (H2O)
C
Glucose
D
Sodium ions (Na+)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of the phospholipid bilayer: It consists of hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails, creating a semi-permeable membrane.
Identify the properties of molecules that can pass through the bilayer: Small, nonpolar molecules can easily diffuse through the hydrophobic core of the bilayer.
Evaluate Oxygen (O2): It is a small, nonpolar molecule, which allows it to freely diffuse through the phospholipid bilayer.
Evaluate Water (H2O): Although polar, water is small enough to pass through the bilayer via osmosis or through specialized channels called aquaporins.
Evaluate Glucose and Sodium ions (Na+): Glucose is a large polar molecule, and sodium ions are charged particles, both of which cannot freely pass through the hydrophobic core of the bilayer without assistance from transport proteins.