How do cell membranes form and what is their structure

The cell membrane consists of a phospholipid bilayer. Phospholipids are molecules with a hydrophilic (water loving) tail. And a hydrophobic (water repelling) tail. The cell environment contains a high proportion of water water molecules, this means that the hydrophilic heads face outwards to make contact with water, and the hydrophobic tails face inwards making contact with eachother. This results in two layers of phospholipids packed together, known as a bilayer, the overall structure with heads of the phospholipids facing the exterior or interior and the tails packing together within the membrane.

ED
Answered by Emily D. Biology tutor

2448 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

The genotypes of 2 guinea pigs, for 2 traits are represented as AABB and aabb. The guinea pigs are mated and the offspring eventually mate with eachother. Of the second generation, what genotypes would be phenotypically different from the originals?


Outline the sequence of events following the production of extracellular proteins that leads to their release from the cell. [3]


Explain how you would test for the presence of lipids and proteins in an unknown solution. Give details on any observations you would expect to make.


How does an invasive species cause negative effects on the biodiversity of an ecosystem?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences