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Wordabulary

phospholipid

Pronunciation
Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

A type of lipid with a water-attracting head and two water-repelling tails, forming the main structural component of cell membranes.

"Each phospholipid in the membrane arranges itself so its tails point away from the surrounding water."

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "Each _____ in the membrane arranges itself so its tails point away from the surrounding water."

Answer: phospholipid

In your own words, what does "phospholipid" mean?

A type of lipid with a water-attracting head and two water-repelling tails, forming the main structural component of cell membranes.

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