Question

how do membranes form spontaneously? multiple choice enzymes can synthesize lipids directly into a membrane. enzymes release energy that is used to link phospholipids together. lipids bind to each other through hydrophobic bonds. the hydrophobic polar groups on phospholipids are attracted to each other. the hydrophobic fatty acid tails on phospholipids are repelled by water.

Explanation:

1. Analyze each option:

• Option 1: Enzymes don't directly synthesize lipids into membranes for spontaneous formation.
• Option 2: Enzymes aren't involved in linking phospholipids for membrane formation in this way.
• Option 3: Lipids don't bind via hydrophobic bonds; hydrophobic interactions (not bonds) drive membrane formation.
• Option 4: Phospholipid polar groups are hydrophilic, not hydrophobic, so this is incorrect.
• Option 5: Phospholipids have hydrophobic fatty acid tails and hydrophilic heads. In water, the hydrophobic tails are repelled by water, causing them to cluster together, and the hydrophilic heads face water. This self - assembly leads to spontaneous membrane formation.

Answer:

The hydrophobic fatty acid tails on phospholipids are repelled by water.