Question

Look at the figure below. Which statement about the lipid bilayer shown in the figure is FALSE?

A. The area labeled B contains hydrophobic regions of fatty acids


B. The area labeled B allows for the diffusion of lipid-soluble particles


C. The area labeled A contains polar groups that can interact with water


D. The area labeled A contains hydrophilic portions of lipid molecules


E. The area labeled B allows for the movement of charged particles

Answer 1

The FALSE statement is: The area labeled A contains hydrophilic portions of lipid molecules. Hence the correct option is d.

The lipid bilayer, as depicted in the figure, is a fundamental component of cell membranes. Contrary to statement D, the area labeled A does not contain hydrophilic portions of lipid molecules; instead, it comprises hydrophobic regions of fatty acids. The lipid bilayer is characterized by a dual layer of lipid molecules, with hydrophobic tails oriented inward and hydrophilic heads facing outward.

Area A, representing the hydrophilic heads, interacts with water, facilitating its orientation towards the aqueous environment. In contrast, the hydrophobic tails, represented by area B, create a barrier that restricts the passage of water-soluble particles but allows for the diffusion of lipid-soluble substances. Hence the correct option is d.