What structural feature defines phospholipids as amphipathic molecules essential for membrane bilayers?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Hydrophilic polar phosphate head group and two hydrophobic nonpolar fatty acyl tails
Phospholipids have a polar, hydrophilic head (phosphate group plus choline, ethanolamine, or serine) and two nonpolar, hydrophobic hydrocarbon tails. In aqueous media, they spontaneously self-assemble into bilayers with heads facing water.
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