A Level Biology Practice Exam

Which property describes a hydrophilic molecule?

1. Repel water

2. Attract water

3. Do not dissolve in water

4. Are found only in fats

The correct answer is: Attract water

The property that accurately describes a hydrophilic molecule is the ability to attract water. Hydrophilic molecules are typically polar or charged, allowing them to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. This interaction makes them soluble in water, as they can easily mix and disperse in an aqueous environment. Hydrophilic molecules often include substances such as sugars, amino acids, and certain ions, which all interact favorably with water. This attraction to water is crucial for many biological processes, as it influences how substances move in living organisms and interact with cellular structures.