Lipids and IMF

Question 1

Which fatty acid type leads to a membrane that is more fluid?

Answer 1

Unsaturated fatty acids

Unsaturated fatty acids have fewer Van der Waals interactions compared to saturated fatty acids, making membranes less rigid.

Question 2

What type of interactions are enhanced in saturated fatty acids?

Answer 2

Van der Waals interactions

Enhanced Van der Waals interactions contribute to the rigidity of saturated fatty acids.

Question 3

What are the major constituents of cell membranes?

Answer 3

Phospholipid derivatives

Phospholipid derivatives vary in head-group, chain length, and double bond number to alter membrane properties.

Question 4

How do phospholipid derivatives affect membrane properties?

Answer 4

By varying head-group, chain length, and double bond number

These variations can influence fluidity, permeability, and overall membrane function.

Question 5

What are sphingosine lipids?

Answer 5

A type of phospholipid derivative

Sphingosine lipids are important components of cell membranes, similar to other phospholipid derivatives.