MDCAT Biology MCQ #868

In a diagram of the cell membrane bilayer, the fatty acid 'tails' of phospholipids face each other internally. What is the chemical nature of these tails?

MDCAT Biology MCQ #868

  1. Question 1

    Q1. In a diagram of the cell membrane bilayer, the fatty acid 'tails' of phospholipids face each other internally. What is the chemical nature of these tails?

    • A) Hydrophilic and polar
    • B) Hydrophilic and non-polar
    • C) Hydrophobic and non-polar
    • D) Hydrophobic and polar

    Answer: Hydrophobic and non-polar

    Explanation: Phospholipids are amphipathic; the non-polar fatty acid tails are hydrophobic and orient away from water, while phosphate heads are hydrophilic.