Question

The specialized functions of different membranes are largely determined by the ________ they contain.

1) amphipathic
2) hydrophobic
3) phosphatidylserine
4) cholesterol
5) lipid bilayer
6) phospholipids
7) fatty acid tails
8) lipid monolayer proteins
9) glycolipids
10) lipids
11) sterols
12) hydrophilic head groups
13) phosphatidylcholine
14) sugars

Answer 1

The specialized functions of different membranes are largely determined by the lipids they contain. These lipids, including phospholipids, glycolipids, and sphingolipids, have dual characteristics with hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions. The lipids form structures like micelles and lipid-bilayer sheets that make up cell membranes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The specialized functions of different membranes are largely determined by the lipids they contain. The lipids found in cell membranes can be categorized as phospholipids, glycolipids, and/or sphingolipids. These lipids have dual characteristics, with part of the molecule being hydrophilic and part being hydrophobic. The hydrophobic tails of the lipids associate with one another, forming the interior of the membrane, while the hydrophilic heads contact the fluid inside and outside of the cell.

The importance of lipids in membrane function is further supported by their ability to form uniquely functional structures in aqueous environments. Structures such as micelles and lipid-bilayer sheets are formed, which serve as the basis for the cell membranes of nearly all organisms.