Which of the following crosses lipid bilayers the slowest? A) a large, polar molecule like glucose B) a sodium ion C) a small, nonpolar molecule like oxygen O₂) D) a small, polar molecule like water

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ions, like sodium ions, have an electrical charge and are hydrophilic, meaning they have a strong attraction to water molecules and repel lipid molecules. This makes it difficult for them to cross the nonpolar, hydrophobic interior of the lipid bilayer, slowing their transport across the membrane.

Which of the Following Crosses Lipid Bilayers the Slowest