What characteristic of phospholipids leads to the formation of the lipid bilayer?
A) hydrophobic
B) temperature
C) amphipathic
D) hydrophilic
E) mass

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Phospholipids have both hydrophobic (water-repelling) and hydrophilic (water-attracting) regions, making them amphipathic molecules. When placed in an aqueous environment, such as the cytoplasm or extracellular fluid, phospholipids spontaneously arrange themselves into a double-layered structure called a lipid bilayer. The hydrophilic head regions face outward towards the water while the hydrophobic tail regions face inward, away from the water. This creates a stable barrier that separates the inside of the cell from the outside environment.

What Characteristic of Phospholipids Leads to the Formation of the Lipid