[Campbell Biology P.123] What is the primary structural difference between a typical fat mol... | Practice Question

What is the primary structural difference between a typical fat molecule triglyceride and a phospholipid?

  • A: Fats have a hydrophilic head, while phospholipids have a hydrophobic head.
  • B: Phospholipids have three fatty acids, while fats have two.
  • C: Fats contain a phosphate group, whereas phospholipids do not.
  • D: Phospholipids have two fatty acids and a phosphate group, while fats have three fatty acids.

Explanation

Phospholipids differ from fats triglycerides in that they have only two fatty acid tails attached to glycerol. The third hydroxyl group of glycerol is joined to a phosphate group, which often has an additional charged molecule attached like choline . Fats, on the other hand, typically consist of a glycerol backbone with three fatty acid tails. This structural difference accounts for their distinct properties and roles in biology.