Identifying the Hydrophilic Component of Phospholipids

In biochemistry, lipids are a diverse group of hydrophobic molecules that play crucial roles in cellular structure and function. They are primarily composed of long hydrocarbon chains, which make them insoluble in water.

One of the most common types of lipids found in cell membranes is phospholipids. Phospholipids consist of two fatty acid tails and a phosphate group. Their unique structure allows them to form bilayers, which are fundamental to cellular membranes.

Considering the structure of phospholipids, which part of the molecule is hydrophilic (water-attracting) and is responsible for the formation of the lipid bilayer?