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Which of the following is a true statement about biomolecules? A Carbohydrates are hydrophilic and therefore they cannot mix well in water. B Lipids are hydrophilic and therefore they mix well in water. C Carbohydrates are hydrophobic and therefore they cannot mix well in water. D Lipids are hydrophobic and therefore they cannot mix well in water.

Question

Which of the following is a true statement about biomolecules? A Carbohydrates are hydrophilic and therefore they cannot mix well in water. B Lipids are hydrophilic and therefore they mix well in water. C Carbohydrates are hydrophobic and therefore they cannot mix well in water. D Lipids are hydrophobic and therefore they cannot mix well in water.

Which of the following is a true statement about biomolecules?
A Carbohydrates are hydrophilic and therefore they cannot mix well in water.
B Lipids are hydrophilic and therefore they mix well in water.
C Carbohydrates are hydrophobic and therefore they cannot mix well in water.
D Lipids are hydrophobic and therefore they cannot mix well in water.

Solution

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ArianaVeteran · Tutor for 12 years

Answer

The correct answer is **D. Lipids are hydrophobic and therefore they cannot mix well in water.**<br /><br />Here's why:<br /><br />* **Hydrophilic** means "water-loving." Hydrophilic molecules are attracted to water and can dissolve in it.<br />* **Hydrophobic** means "water-fearing." Hydrophobic molecules are repelled by water and do not dissolve in it.<br /><br />* **Carbohydrates:** Many carbohydrates, like sugars and starches, are polar molecules due to the presence of hydroxyl (-OH) groups. These groups can form hydrogen bonds with water, making carbohydrates generally hydrophilic and soluble in water.<br /><br />* **Lipids:** Lipids, such as fats and oils, are primarily composed of long hydrocarbon chains. These chains are nonpolar and do not interact well with water molecules. This makes lipids hydrophobic and insoluble in water. They tend to clump together in water, rather than dissolving.<br />
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