asked 199k views
3 votes
Molecules that have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components are referred to as __________.

A. hydrophobic
B. hydrophilic
C. amphipathic

asked
User Alethes
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9.1k points

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

Molecules which possess both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties are called amphipathic. The cell membrane's phospholipids are an example of such molecules, featuring a hydrophilic phosphate head and hydrophobic fatty acid tails. The correct option is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

Molecules that have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components are referred to as amphipathic molecules. A prime example of an amphipathic molecule is a phospholipid, which is a fundamental component of cell membranes.

The phospholipid has a hydrophilic (or "water-loving") phosphate head that is attracted to water, and hydrophobic (or "water-fearing") fatty acid tails that repel water. This unique structure allows phospholipids to form bilayers that make up the cell membrane, with the hydrophilic heads facing the aqueous external and internal cellular environments, and the hydrophobic tails facing inward, away from water.

Hence, Option C is correct.

answered
User BBog
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8.1k points
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