Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the interior of a phospholipid bilayer?
A
Hydrophilic
B
Polar
C
Ionic
D
Hydrophobic
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of a phospholipid: A phospholipid consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.
Recognize the arrangement in a bilayer: In a phospholipid bilayer, the hydrophilic heads face outward towards the aqueous environment, while the hydrophobic tails face inward, away from water.
Identify the interior of the bilayer: The interior of the bilayer is formed by the hydrophobic tails, creating a non-polar environment.
Clarify the term 'hydrophobic': Hydrophobic means 'water-fearing' and refers to molecules or parts of molecules that do not interact favorably with water.
Conclude the description: Therefore, the interior of a phospholipid bilayer is best described as hydrophobic, as it is composed of the non-polar, water-repelling tails.