Which of the following are hydrophobic organic molecules?
a. Proteins
b. Carbohydrates
c. Lipids
d. Nucleic acids

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Understand the meaning of 'hydrophobic organic molecules': these are molecules that do not mix well with water due to their nonpolar nature.

Recall the general properties of each molecule type: Proteins are made of amino acids and have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions; Carbohydrates are generally polar and hydrophilic; Lipids are mostly nonpolar and hydrophobic; Nucleic acids have polar phosphate backbones and are hydrophilic.

Analyze each option based on their chemical structure and polarity: Proteins have mixed properties, Carbohydrates are hydrophilic, Lipids are hydrophobic, and Nucleic acids are hydrophilic.

Identify which molecules are primarily hydrophobic by focusing on their nonpolar characteristics, which repel water.

Conclude that lipids are the main class of hydrophobic organic molecules among the options given.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Hydrophobicity in Organic Molecules

Hydrophobic molecules repel water and do not dissolve easily in it. This property is due to nonpolar bonds that prevent interaction with polar water molecules. Understanding hydrophobicity helps distinguish which biomolecules tend to aggregate away from water.

Structure and Properties of Lipids

Lipids are primarily composed of long hydrocarbon chains or rings, making them largely nonpolar and hydrophobic. This characteristic allows lipids to form cell membranes and store energy, distinguishing them from other biomolecules that are more hydrophilic.

Comparison of Biomolecule Classes

Proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids generally contain polar groups, making them hydrophilic or amphipathic. In contrast, lipids are mostly hydrophobic. Recognizing these differences is essential for identifying which molecules repel water.

Which of the following are hydrophobic organic molecules?a. Proteinsb. Carbohydratesc. Lipidsd. Nucleic acids