What characterizes the hydrophobic tail of phospholipids?

The hydrophobic tail of phospholipids is characterized by its ability to repel water. This part of the molecule is typically composed of long fatty acid chains, which are nonpolar and do not interact favorably with water molecules. Instead, they tend to aggregate away from water, leading to the formation of lipid bilayers that are fundamental to cell membranes. This property is crucial for the structural integrity and functionality of cell membranes, allowing them to form barriers that separate the internal environment of the cell from the external surroundings.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of the hydrophobic tail. For instance, the hydrophobic tail does not attract or dissolve in water, nor does it typically contain nitrogen as a significant component, which is more characteristic of the polar head of phospholipids. Understanding the behavior of the hydrophobic portions of phospholipids is important for grasping key biological concepts, including membrane structure and function.