Role of Phospholipids in Membranes

Medium Biochemistry Lipids And Membranes

Cell membranes are primarily composed of lipid bilayers that form a barrier to protect cell contents from the external environment. Among the various lipid classes, phospholipids play a crucial role due to their amphipathic nature, possessing both hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails. This unique structure allows them to spontaneously arrange into bilayers in an aqueous environment.

In addition to phospholipids, cholesterol is another important component of cell membranes, influencing membrane fluidity and stability. Understanding the composition and behavior of these lipids is essential for grasping how membranes function in cellular processes.

Which of the following statements about phospholipids and their role in biological membranes is correct?

Phospholipids only form bilayers in the absence of cholesterol.

Phospholipids can easily flip between layers of the lipid bilayer without assistance.

Phospholipids are essential for creating a semi-permeable barrier in cell membranes.

Phospholipids have four hydrophobic tails, making them versatile in membrane formation.

Hint

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