Question

Which region of a phospholipid imparts a hydrophobic nature on the molecule? a) The entire molecule. b) The fatty acid tails. c) Glycerol. d) The phosphate group. e) None of the above.

Answer 1

b) The fatty acid tails.

Step-by-step explanation:

The hydrophobic nature of phospholipids is primarily attributed to the fatty acid tails. These tails consist of long hydrocarbon chains that are nonpolar and repel water molecules, making them hydrophobic. The phosphate group and glycerol region of a phospholipid are hydrophilic (water-loving) and interact with water molecules. This unique structure with hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails allows phospholipids to form bilayers in cell membranes.