86.2k views
0 votes
Where is the more fluid region in a phospholipid molecule?

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

The lipid tails of the phospholipid molecule, specifically where unsaturated fatty acids are present, represent the more fluid region due to the kinks caused by double bonds that reduce tight packing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The more fluid region in a phospholipid molecule is found in the lipid tails. These tails are composed of fatty acids, some of which contain double bonds making them unsaturated. The presence of unsaturated fatty acids adds to the fluidity of the tails because the double bonds introduce kinks that prevent the tails from packing closely together. Conversely, saturated fatty acid tails without double bonds are straighter and can pack more tightly, making that region less fluid. The phospholipid bilayer essential in cell membranes exhibits this fluid characteristic, with the hydrophilic phosphate heads facing the aqueous exterior and interior of the cell, while the hydrophobic tails congregate in the interior, away from water.

User Itchyny
by
7.7k points