[Campbell Biology P.176] Which of the following best describes an amphipathic molecule, such... | Practice Question

Which of the following best describes an amphipathic molecule, such as a phospholipid, in the context of a cellular membrane?

  • A: Contains only hydrophilic regions that interact with water.
  • B: Contains both a hydrophilic ("water-loving") region and a hydrophobic ("water-fearing") region.
  • C: Is exclusively found on the extracellular side of the membrane.
  • D: Primarily provides structural support for the cytoskeleton.

Explanation

An amphipathic molecule, such as a phospholipid, possesses both a hydrophilic "water-loving" region the head and a hydrophobic "water-fearing" region the tail . This dual nature is crucial for their ability to spontaneously form stable bilayers in aqueous environments, with hydrophilic heads facing water and hydrophobic tails sheltered inside.