Multiple Choice
In the context of the lipid bilayer, where is cholesterol typically found within the cell membrane?
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8. Membrane Structure
The Lipid Bilayer
Multiple Choice
In the context of the lipid bilayer, which part of a phospholipid molecule is hydrophobic?
A
The carbohydrate group attached to the head (if present)
B
The phosphate-containing head group
C
The fatty acid (hydrocarbon) tails
D
The glycerol backbone
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of a phospholipid molecule, which consists of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails.
Identify the components of the phospholipid: the phosphate-containing head group, the glycerol backbone, the fatty acid (hydrocarbon) tails, and any carbohydrate groups attached to the head.
Recall that the phosphate-containing head group is polar and interacts well with water, making it hydrophilic.
Recognize that the fatty acid tails are long hydrocarbon chains that do not interact well with water, making them hydrophobic.
Conclude that in the lipid bilayer, the hydrophobic part of the phospholipid molecule is the fatty acid (hydrocarbon) tails.
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