Why do lipids not mix with water? A) They are highly soluble in water B) They are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water C) They are acidic and dissolve in water D) They form hydrogen bonds with water
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Lipids are primarily made up of long chains of hydrocarbon, which means they have little to no affinity for water molecules. Their hydrophobic nature causes them to repel water, preventing them from dissolving. This is fundamental in the formation of cell membranes, where lipids create a barrier that separates the interior of the cell from the watery environment outside. In everyday life, this property of lipids is why oil and water don’t mix, a common sight in salad dressings and oily spills. When you shake oil and vinegar together, they may combine momentarily, but once you stop shaking, the oil floats to the top, showcasing how lipids' reluctance to bond with water affects not just biology but also cooking and cleaning dynamics!