Lipids are insoluble in water because lipid molecules are:
Correct answer: B. Hydrophobic
- A. Hydrophilic
- B. Hydrophobic
- C. Neutral
- D. Zwitter ions
Explanation
Lipid molecules are insoluble or sparingly soluble in water but are freely soluble in organic solvents like ether, alcohol, and benzene. The insolubility of lipids in water is due to the fact that the polar groups they contain are much smaller than their nonpolar portions. The nonpolar chains are long, complex hydrophobic hydrocarbon chains. If shaken in water, lipids often form small droplets or micelles. The complex created is called emulsions. These nonpolar proteins give them water-repellent or hydrophobic properties.
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About Biological Molecules
The chapter covers water's polarity and biological roles, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids, including their monomers, bonds, structures and functions. It also distinguishes RNA from DNA and explains conjugated molecules such as glycoproteins, glycolipids and nucleoproteins, which combine organic molecules with a non-protein component.
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