Amphipathic molecule in plasma membrane is

Options

A. Protein
B. Carbohydrates
C. Phospholipids
D. All the above

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understand the Concept of Amphipathic Molecules:**
- Amphipathic molecules are compounds that have both polar (hydrophilic) and nonpolar (hydrophobic) regions. This dual nature allows them to interact with both water and lipid environments.

2. **Define Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic:**
- Hydrophobic refers to the "water-hating" property, meaning these parts do not interact well with water.
- Hydrophilic refers to the "water-loving" property, meaning these parts readily interact with water.

3. **Role of Amphipathic Molecules in Biological Membranes:**
- Amphipathic molecules are crucial for the formation of biological membranes. Their structure allows them to arrange themselves in a way that forms a barrier between the inside and outside of cells.

4. **Identify Examples of Amphipathic Molecules:**
- Common examples include bile salts, surfactants, and most importantly, phospholipids.

5. **Focus on Phospholipids:**
- Phospholipids are the primary amphipathic molecules found in the plasma membrane. They consist of a hydrophilic "head" and two hydrophobic "tails."

6. **Structure of the Plasma Membrane:**
- The plasma membrane is primarily composed of a lipid bilayer formed by phospholipids. The hydrophilic heads face outward towards the aqueous environment, while the hydrophobic tails face inward, away from water.

7. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the amphipathic molecule in the plasma membrane is phospholipids.

**Final Answer:**
The amphipathic molecule in the plasma membrane is phospholipids.

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