A scientist has isolated a chemical compound that is partially soluble in water. The chemical helps keep water-soluble substance
s mixed with fats. When analyzing the composition of the chemical, the scientist determined that in addition to carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, the compound contains nitrogen and phosphorus atoms. Based on this information, the compound is a (an)
Based on the information, the compound is a phospholipid.
Explanation:
Phospholipids are made up of a fatty acid tail which is hydrophobic in nature and a head which comprises of phosphates that is hydrophilic in nature. Hence, phospholipids are amphiphilic compounds so they will be partially soluble in water and will allow water-soluble substances to mix with fats.
Hence, the composition of the substance described in the question confirms that is a phospholipid. As it's structure contains hydrocarbon and phosphorus and might also contain nitrogen.
