Biology A-Level
hydrophobic versus amphipathic
What hydrophobic versus amphipathic means in Biology A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of hydrophobic versus amphipathic
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain hydrophobic versus amphipathic in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A triglyceride is non-polar and hydrophobic, whereas a phospholipid has a hydrophilic phosphate-containing head and hydrophobic tails, so it is amphipathic rather than simply hydrophobic.
Topics that use hydrophobic versus amphipathic
- Lipids (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- amphipathic and bilayer formation
- energy per gram
- Hydrophobic and amphipathic properties
- hydrophobic core as a barrier
- kinks and packing
- phospholipid as membrane component
- Phospholipid structure
- saturated fatty acids
Using hydrophobic versus amphipathic in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Biology A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge