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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements describes the interaction of water molecules with phospholipids in a biological membrane?
A
Water molecules form hydrogen bonds with the hydrophilic heads of phospholipids.
B
Water molecules are completely excluded from interacting with phospholipids.
C
Water molecules form hydrogen bonds with the hydrophobic tails of phospholipids.
D
Water molecules are repelled by the hydrophilic heads of phospholipids.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of a phospholipid: Phospholipids have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails. The head is typically composed of a phosphate group, which is polar and can form hydrogen bonds with water.
Recognize the nature of water molecules: Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other. This allows water to form hydrogen bonds with other polar molecules.
Identify the interaction between water and the hydrophilic heads: Since the hydrophilic heads of phospholipids are polar, they can interact with water molecules through hydrogen bonding. This is because both the water molecules and the hydrophilic heads have polar characteristics.
Consider the interaction with hydrophobic tails: The hydrophobic tails of phospholipids are nonpolar and do not form hydrogen bonds with water. Instead, they tend to avoid water, leading to the formation of a bilayer where the tails face inward, shielded from water.
Evaluate the given statements: Based on the understanding of phospholipid structure and water's properties, the statement that water molecules form hydrogen bonds with the hydrophilic heads of phospholipids is correct. This interaction is crucial for the formation and stability of biological membranes.