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Multiple Choice
How are phospholipids arranged in the plasma membrane?
A
In a bilayer with hydrophilic tails facing inward
B
In a single layer with hydrophilic heads facing inward
C
In a bilayer with hydrophobic tails facing inward
D
In a single layer with hydrophobic heads facing outward
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.
Recognize the environment of the plasma membrane: It separates the aqueous environment inside the cell from the aqueous environment outside the cell.
Consider the arrangement that allows the hydrophilic heads to interact with water: The hydrophilic heads face outward towards the aqueous environments on both sides of the membrane.
Determine the orientation of the hydrophobic tails: The hydrophobic tails face inward, away from water, and towards each other, forming a bilayer.
Conclude that the phospholipids are arranged in a bilayer with hydrophilic heads facing outward and hydrophobic tails facing inward, which is essential for membrane stability and function.