What type of bonds do water molecules form with the polar end of a phospholipid?

Water molecules form hydrogen bonds with the polar end of a phospholipid. Phospholipids are amphipathic molecules that contain both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) regions. The polar head of a phospholipid interacts favorably with water, allowing for the formation of hydrogen bonds.

In a hydrogen bond, a hydrogen atom that is covalently bonded to a more electronegative atom (like oxygen in water) is attracted to another electronegative atom. This is essential in biological systems, as these interactions help maintain the structure and function of cellular membranes. The hydrogen bonds between water and the polar head of phospholipids contribute to the formation of the lipid bilayer that is fundamental to cell membrane stability and fluidity.