What is another way to describe the amphipathic nature of a fatty acid?
A) polar head and nonpolar tail
B) nonpolar head and polar tail
C) polar head and double bonds in tail
D) nonpolar head and double bonds in tail

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The term "amphipathic" refers to the fact that a fatty acid molecule has both a polar (hydrophilic) "head" and a nonpolar (hydrophobic) "tail." This makes the molecule both attracted to and repelled by water, driving its behavior in both aqueous and lipid environments. Choice B is incorrect, as a molecule with a nonpolar head and polar tail would be described as having a reverse amphipathic nature. Choices C and D are incorrect, as the presence of double bonds in the tail does not impact the polarity of the head or the nonpolarity of the tail.

What Is Another Way to Describe the Amphipathic Nature of a Fatty