Question

Select all of the properties of micelles.

1) They are formed by the aggregation of amphiphilic molecules in a solvent.
2) They have a hydrophilic head and a hydrophobic tail.
3) They can solubilize hydrophobic substances in water.
4) They have a spherical shape.
5) They are only found in biological systems.

Answer 1

Micelles are structures formed by the aggregation of amphiphilic molecules and have the ability to solubilize hydrophobic substances in water. They consist of a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic exterior and usually take on a spherical shape. Contrary to one option, they are not solely found in biological systems but also occur in non-biological settings.

Step-by-step explanation:

Select all of the properties of micelles given in the question:

1. They are formed by the aggregation of amphiphilic molecules in a solvent.
2. They have a hydrophilic head and a hydrophobic tail.
3. They can solubilize hydrophobic substances in water.
4. They have a spherical shape.
5. They are only found in biological systems.

Micelles are indeed formed by the aggregation of amphiphilic molecules in a solvent, where molecules congregate such that their hydrophobic tails are sequestered away from water, forming the inner core, with their hydrophilic heads facing outward. This structure allows micelles to solubilize hydrophobic substances in an aqueous environment. Moreover, micelles typically possess a spherical shape. However, the last statement is incorrect; micelles are not exclusive to biological systems--they can also form in various non-biological contexts, particularly in the presence of soaps or detergents.