Final Answer:
The entire phospholipid molecule is:
C. amphipathic
Step-by-step explanation:
Phospholipids are molecules that form the basis of cell membranes. The correct term to describe the entire phospholipid molecule is "amphipathic" (Option C). This term accurately reflects the dual nature of phospholipids, which have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) regions.
Phospholipids consist of a hydrophilic head and two hydrophobic tails. The hydrophilic head contains a phosphate group, making it water-soluble, while the hydrophobic tails, usually composed of fatty acids, are nonpolar and repel water. This unique structure gives phospholipids their amphipathic nature, allowing them to organize into bilayers in aqueous environments, such as those found in cell membranes.
The amphipathic nature of phospholipids is crucial for the formation of cell membranes, as it enables the creation of a stable barrier between the intracellular and extracellular environments. The hydrophilic heads interact with water, while the hydrophobic tails align away from water, forming a bilayer that acts as a selective barrier for the passage of ions and molecules.
This selective permeability is fundamental to cellular function and compartmentalization, highlighting the significance of the term "amphipathic" in accurately describing the entire phospholipid molecule.