What is the part of the cell membrane which is in contact with the internal and external environments?
Correct answer: B. Hydrophilic
- A. Hydrophobic
- B. Hydrophilic
- C. Neutral
- D. Both Options A and B are correct
Explanation
The cell membrane consists of a lipid bilayer where the hydrophilic heads of phospholipids face the aqueous internal and external environments, allowing the membrane to interact with water and maintain cellular integrity. The hydrophobic tails, however, face inward, away from water, creating a barrier to most water-soluble substances. This functional design is essential for the selective permeability of the membrane. The other options are incorrect as they either misrepresent the properties of the membrane or incorrectly suggest that both hydrophobic and hydrophilic characteristics are in contact with the environments.
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About Cell Structure and Function
Animal, plant, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are compared through their membranes, cell walls, nuclei and cytoplasmic organelles. The work includes the structures and functions of mitochondria, chloroplasts, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes, as well as chromosome organization and the distinction between chromatin and chromosomes.
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