_________ is an important component of cell membranes, forming a lipid bilayer by orienting the water-soluble portion towards the water environment.
A) Cholesterol
B) Phospholipid
C) Saturated fatty acid
D) Triglyceride

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Phospholipids are amphipathic molecules that have a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (water-fearing) tail. In water, they orient themselves in a bilayer with the heads facing outwards towards the water environment and the tails facing inwards away from the water. This arrangement forms the basic structure of all cell membranes. Cholesterol is also a component of cell membranes but its role is to maintain the fluidity of the membrane and is not involved in the formation of the lipid bilayer. Saturated fatty acids and triglycerides are not typically found in cell membranes.

_________ Is an Important Component of Cell Membranes, Forming a Lipid