Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which structural feature of fats contributes to their hydrophobic nature?
A
High density of polar functional groups
B
Ability to form hydrogen bonds with water
C
Presence of long hydrocarbon chains
D
Presence of ionic charges
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of hydrophobicity: Hydrophobic molecules tend to repel water and do not mix well with it. This is often due to the lack of polar functional groups that can interact with water molecules.
Examine the structural features of fats: Fats are primarily composed of long hydrocarbon chains, which are nonpolar. Nonpolar molecules do not have a charge distribution that can interact with polar water molecules.
Consider the role of polar functional groups: Polar functional groups, such as hydroxyl (-OH) or carboxyl (-COOH) groups, can form hydrogen bonds with water, making a molecule more hydrophilic. Fats lack these polar groups in their hydrocarbon chains.
Evaluate the ability to form hydrogen bonds: Hydrogen bonding occurs between molecules that have polar functional groups. Since fats have long hydrocarbon chains without these groups, they cannot form hydrogen bonds with water.
Assess the presence of ionic charges: Ionic charges can interact with water due to the polar nature of water molecules. Fats do not have ionic charges in their structure, contributing to their hydrophobic nature.