Multiple Choice
In the context of the lipid bilayer, what best describes a phospholipid?
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8. Membrane Structure
The Lipid Bilayer
Multiple Choice
Which class of macromolecule primarily makes up the structural framework of the cell membrane (lipid bilayer)?
A
Nucleic acids
B
Phospholipids
C
Triacylglycerols
D
Polysaccharides
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the main components of the cell membrane, focusing on the structural framework known as the lipid bilayer.
Recall that the lipid bilayer is primarily composed of molecules that have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails, allowing them to form a stable barrier in aqueous environments.
Understand that phospholipids fit this description because they have a glycerol backbone, two fatty acid tails (hydrophobic), and a phosphate group head (hydrophilic).
Compare the other options: nucleic acids are genetic material, triacylglycerols are storage lipids and do not form bilayers, and polysaccharides are carbohydrates mainly involved in structural support or energy storage but not membrane formation.
Conclude that phospholipids are the class of macromolecules that primarily make up the structural framework of the cell membrane lipid bilayer.
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