Multiple Choice
In the context of the lipid bilayer, which part of a phospholipid molecule is hydrophobic?
23
views
8. Membrane Structure
The Lipid Bilayer
Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules is a phospholipid commonly found in the lipid bilayer of cell membranes?
A
Triacylglycerol (triglyceride)
B
Cholesterol
C
Glycogen
D
Phosphatidylcholine
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure and function of the lipid bilayer in cell membranes, which is primarily composed of phospholipids arranged in a bilayer to provide a semi-permeable barrier.
Recall that phospholipids have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' containing a phosphate group and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) fatty acid 'tails', making them ideal for forming bilayers.
Identify the molecules listed: Triacylglycerol (triglyceride) is a storage lipid with three fatty acids and no phosphate group; Cholesterol is a sterol that modulates membrane fluidity but is not a phospholipid; Glycogen is a polysaccharide used for energy storage, not a lipid.
Recognize that Phosphatidylcholine is a phospholipid with a choline group attached to the phosphate head, making it a common and important component of the cell membrane lipid bilayer.
Conclude that among the options, Phosphatidylcholine fits the criteria of a phospholipid commonly found in the lipid bilayer, due to its amphipathic nature and structural role in membranes.
Related Videos
Related Practice
