The model below shows the structure of a portion of a plasma membrane in an animal cell. The model shows the structure of a portion of a plasma membrane in an animal cell. None of the parts are labeled, but the model includes a phospholipid bilayer that contains some embedded proteins. The phospholipids are arranged with their heads oriented toward the external and internal membrane surfaces and their fatty acid tails oriented toward the center of the membrane. Which statement best explains the orientation of the phospholipid molecules in this model?

Question

Weber

Biology

8 January, 23:59

The model below shows the structure of a portion of a plasma membrane in an animal cell. The model shows the structure of a portion of a plasma membrane in an animal cell. None of the parts are labeled, but the model includes a phospholipid bilayer that contains some embedded proteins. The phospholipids are arranged with their heads oriented toward the external and internal membrane surfaces and their fatty acid tails oriented toward the center of the membrane. Which statement best explains the orientation of the phospholipid molecules in this model?

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Answers (1)

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Kennedi · Answer 1

The amphipathic property of the phospholipids that constitute the membrane

Explanation:

It seems like a options-based answer so it would be better if they were included here but basically, each of those phospholipid molecules has two parts with antagonistic reactions towards water.

The head is polar or hydrophilic, wich means it can be sorrounded by water. The tail, is apolar or hydrophobic which means it is repelled by water.

The interior and exterior of the cell is contain water-based substances, that's why the heads of the phospholipids are oriented like that with the tails protected inside the membrane.

This double layer structure has a fundamental role in the fluid property of the cell membrane from which derive most of it's functions.