A certain glycerophospholipid is made of glycerol, two fatty acids, and ethanolamine. What components does the carboxylic ester linkage connect?

• A. Phosphate and ethanolamine.
• B. Glycerol and fatty acids.
• C. Fatty acids and phosphate.
• D. Glycerol and ethanolamine.
• E. There are no ester linkages is the glycerophospholipid.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of a glycerophospholipid: It consists of a glycerol backbone, two fatty acids, a phosphate group, and an alcohol group such as ethanolamine.
2. Identify the ester linkage: In glycerophospholipids, ester linkages are formed between the hydroxyl groups of glycerol and the carboxyl groups of fatty acids.
3. Recognize the role of glycerol: Glycerol has three hydroxyl groups, two of which form ester bonds with the carboxyl groups of the fatty acids.
4. Clarify the connection: The ester linkage specifically connects the glycerol backbone to the fatty acids, forming the hydrophobic tail of the glycerophospholipid.
5. Conclude the correct answer: Based on the structure, the carboxylic ester linkage connects glycerol and fatty acids.