Question

Which of the following statements is false regarding the phospholipid bilayer in cell membranes? t of Select one: O a. The molecules in the bilayer are fluid and so the cell membrane is porous allowing the passage of ions and water across the cell membrane. e flag b. Water and ions are unable to cross the bilayer due to the hydrophobic tails of the phospholipid molecules. o C. It is made up of two layers of phospholipid molecules with the tails interacting with each other. o d. There are charged groups at the inner and outer surfaces of the cell membrane.

Answer 1

Answer: b. Water and ions are unable to cross the bilayer due to the hydrophobic tails of the phospholipid molecules.

Step-by-step explanation:

This statement is false. The phospholipid bilayer in cell membranes is selectively permeable, meaning it allows certain substances, including water and small ions, to cross the membrane. The hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads of the phospholipids face outward, interacting with the surrounding aqueous environment, while the hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails face inward, away from the water. This arrangement creates a semi-permeable barrier that allows small, uncharged molecules like water and gases to pass through via simple diffusion. Additionally, certain ions can also cross the membrane through specific ion channels or active transport mechanisms.