Which of the following is a true statement about phospholipids?

Prepare for the Utah Nutrition Certification Exam. Explore flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with helpful explanations. Get ready to excel in your exam!

Phospholipids play a crucial role in the structure and function of cell membranes, and one of their key characteristics is their ability to act as emulsifiers. Emulsifiers are substances that help to mix two immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, by reducing surface tension. This property is due to the amphipathic nature of phospholipids, which means they contain a hydrophilic (water-attracting) "head" and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) "tails." This arrangement allows them to interact with both water and lipid substances, making them effective at stabilizing emulsions.

In the context of nutrition, phospholipids are essential for the formation of cell membranes, aiding in the maintenance of cellular integrity while also facilitating the transport of fat-soluble vitamins and other nutrients in the body. Their emulsifying properties are particularly important in the digestive system, where they help break down fats for absorption.

The other statements do not accurately describe phospholipids. For example, phospholipids consist of two fatty acids, not three, in addition to a phosphate group. While they contribute to the overall structure of cell membranes and play various roles in cellular functions, they do not serve as

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