Question

1. Phospholipids are said to be ‘amphipathic’.  

a. What is meant by this term?

b. Describe how the structure of phospholipids fit this description.

c. How does the amphipathic nature of phospholipids relate to the formation of lipid bilayers?

Answer 1

Amphipathic term means that the molecule has both hydrophobic and hydrophilic parts.

Cell membrane contain lipid molecules, these are amphipathic molecules and are called as phospholipids. They contain the water loving part which is hydrophilic and water hating part which is hydrophobic part. Hydrophilic parts are the polar ends and hydrophobic parts are the non polar ends.

The amphipathic nature of the phospholipid molecules help in permeability of the membrane. These are selectively permeable and prove a gateway for molecules.

Hope this helps, Good luck!!!