The Biochemistry of Movement > 9.7.3. Fats are also important fuels for cells > The Fatty Acid Molecule Mixing With Water >
Identify the part of the fatty acid molecule that should mix with water and explain this phenomenon
- The fatty acid molecule has a “water-loving” (hydrophilic) head, which is the carboxyl group, and a “water-fearing” (hydrophobic) tail.
- The carboxyl group at the end of the molecule is highly polar, making it soluble in water.
- The hydrocarbon chain is non-polar, meaning that it is insoluble in water.
- As the length of the CH2 chain increases, the molecule becomes more hydrophobic and less soluble in water.