7/24/2023 0 Comments Download cell membrane structure![]() ![]() Some lipid tails consist of saturated fatty acids and some contain unsaturated fatty acids. The lipid tails, on the other hand, are uncharged, or nonpolar, and are hydrophobic-or “water fearing.” A hydrophobic molecule (or region of a molecule) repels and is repelled by water. ![]() The phosphate heads are thus attracted to the water molecules of both the extracellular and intracellular environments. The phosphate group is negatively charged, making the head polar and hydrophilic-or “water loving.” A hydrophilic molecule (or region of a molecule) is one that is attracted to water. Cholesterol is also present, which contributes to the fluidity of the membrane, and there are various proteins embedded within the membrane that have a variety of functions.Ī single phospholipid molecule has a phosphate group on one end, called the “head,” and two side-by-side chains of fatty acids that make up the lipid tails ( Figure 3.2). The cell membrane is an extremely pliable structure composed primarily of back-to-back phospholipids (a “bilayer”). Structure and Composition of the Cell Membrane This cell membrane provides a protective barrier around the cell and regulates which materials can pass in or out. As the outer layer of your skin separates your body from its environment, the cell membrane (also known as the plasma membrane) separates the inner contents of a cell from its exterior environment. Compare and contrast different types of passive transport with active transport, providing examples of eachĭespite differences in structure and function, all living cells in multicellular organisms have a surrounding cell membrane.Differentiate between materials that can and cannot diffuse through the lipid bilayer.Explain the major features and properties of the cell membrane.Describe the molecular components that make up the cell membrane.By the end of this section, you will be able to:
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