Which component is not part of a phospholipid?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $9.99Unlock all

Master the DAT Bootcamp Molecules and Fundamentals of Biology Test with our comprehensive quiz. Unlock thorough understanding with flashcards, meticulous explanations, and ample practice questions. Gear up for success in your exam journey!

Multiple Choice

Which component is not part of a phospholipid?

Explanation:
Phospholipids are built around a glycerol backbone with a hydrophobic interior formed by two fatty acid tails and a hydrophilic head formed by a phosphate group (often with another small molecule attached). This arrangement gives the molecule its amphipathic character, which drives membrane formation. If three fatty acid tails were present, there would be no phosphate-containing head to provide a polar region; such a molecule would be a triglyceride, not a phospholipid. So the component that is not part of a phospholipid is having three fatty acid tails.

Phospholipids are built around a glycerol backbone with a hydrophobic interior formed by two fatty acid tails and a hydrophilic head formed by a phosphate group (often with another small molecule attached). This arrangement gives the molecule its amphipathic character, which drives membrane formation. If three fatty acid tails were present, there would be no phosphate-containing head to provide a polar region; such a molecule would be a triglyceride, not a phospholipid. So the component that is not part of a phospholipid is having three fatty acid tails.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy