What two components make up phospholipids in the membrane?

What two components make up phospholipids in the membrane?

• A. Cholesterol and protein
• B. Fatty acids and nucleotides
• C. Fatty acids and glycerol
• D. Proteins and amino acids

Answer: (C)

Phospholipids, the primary components of cell membranes, are primarily made up of fatty acids and glycerol. Each phospholipid molecule has two fatty acid tails that are hydrophobic (water-repelling) and a glycerol backbone that is hydrophilic (water-attracting). This unique structure allows phospholipids to form bilayers in which the hydrophobic tails face inward, away from water, while the hydrophilic heads are exposed to the aqueous environment inside and outside the cell. This arrangement is crucial for creating a semi-permeable membrane that separates the cell from its surroundings and regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, thus playing a vital role in cellular function and structure.

Phospholipids, the primary components of cell membranes, are primarily made up of fatty acids and glycerol. Each phospholipid molecule has two fatty acid tails that are hydrophobic (water-repelling) and a glycerol backbone that is hydrophilic (water-attracting). This unique structure allows phospholipids to form bilayers in which the hydrophobic tails face inward, away from water, while the hydrophilic heads are exposed to the aqueous environment inside and outside the cell. This arrangement is crucial for creating a semi-permeable membrane that separates the cell from its surroundings and regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, thus playing a vital role in cellular function and structure.