140k views
5 votes
What do you call a molecule that is both hydrophilic and hydrophobic?

User Mattimatti
by
7.1k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

A molecule that possesses both hydrophilic and hydrophobic qualities is known as an amphipathic molecule, such as a phospholipid, which forms the core structure of cell membranes.

Step-by-step explanation:

A molecule that is both hydrophilic and hydrophobic is called an amphipathic molecule. An example of such a molecule is a phospholipid, which has a hydrophilic "head" and a hydrophobic "tail". The hydrophilic head of a phospholipid is attracted to water and is made up of a phosphate-containing group attached to a glycerol molecule, while the hydrophobic tail, consisting of either saturated or unsaturated fatty acids, repels water. This dual nature allows phospholipids to form the structural foundation of cell membranes, creating a barrier that controls the entrance and exit of substances.

User Majedur
by
8.3k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.