Which of the following groups of organic compounds is the largest component of plasma membranes?

The largest component of plasma membranes is lipids, specifically phospholipids, which form a bilayer that serves as the basic structure of the membrane. This lipid bilayer is essential for maintaining the integrity of the cell, as it provides a barrier that separates the interior of the cell from the external environment. The hydrophobic tails of phospholipids face inward, while the hydrophilic heads face outward, which is crucial for the membrane's function.

Additionally, the presence of proteins embedded within or attached to this lipid bilayer allows for various functions such as transport, signaling, and structural support, but the sheer amount of lipid in the membrane significantly surpasses the quantity of proteins. While carbohydrates and nucleic acids play roles in cell function, they are not primary components of the plasma membrane itself. Proteins and carbohydrates can be found associated with the membrane, contributing to its functionality, but in terms of overall composition, lipids dominate the structure and make up the primary framework of plasma membranes.