Examine the following cutaway figure showing the structure of a micelle. Which of the following statements correctly describes the structure?
A) The interior surface is polar, whereas the exterior surface is nonpolar.
B) The exterior surface is insoluble in water.
C) The exterior surface of the structure is adsorbed by grease.
D) The exterior surface is polar, whereas the interior surface is nonpolar.

Question

Examine the following cutaway figure showing the structure of a micelle.  Which of the following statements correctly describes the structure?
A) The interior surface is polar, whereas the exterior surface is nonpolar. 
B) The exterior surface is insoluble in water. 
C) The exterior surface of the structure is adsorbed by grease. 
D) The exterior surface is polar, whereas the interior surface is nonpolar.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The structure of a micelle is composed of hydrophobic (nonpolar) tails pointing towards the inside, whereas the hydrophilic (polar) heads point towards the outer surface that contacts the surrounding water molecules. Therefore, the interior surface is nonpolar, whereas the exterior surface is polar.

Examine the Following Cutaway Figure Showing the Structure of a Micelle