Properties of Phospholipids in Membranes

Medium Biochemistry Lipids And Membranes

In biological membranes, lipids play a crucial role in maintaining the structure and function of cells. One of the most prevalent types of lipids found in these membranes are phospholipids, which consist of a hydrophilic (water-attracting) 'head' and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) 'tails'. This amphipathic nature of phospholipids allows them to form bilayers, which are essential for creating the cell membrane. The fluidity of these membranes can be affected by various factors such as temperature, the presence of cholesterol, and the saturation of the fatty acids in the phospholipids. Understanding these properties is essential for comprehending how cells interact with their environment.

Which of the following statements about the properties of phospholipids in biological membranes is TRUE?

Phospholipids can only form a single layer in aqueous environments.

Saturated fatty acids in phospholipids increase membrane fluidity.

Cholesterol reduces the fluidity of membranes at high temperatures.

Phospholipids spontaneously arrange into bilayers when placed in aqueous solutions.

Hint

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