which of the following is composed of a phospholipid bilayer course hero

What is the phospholipid bilayer?

As its name implies, the phospholipid bilayer is made up of many phospholipids that lined up altogether.

What are the components of a hydrophilic phospholipid?

Phospholipids are amphipathic (double-charged) molecules composed of one glycerol molecule, one phosphate group, and two fatty acid units. As portrayed in the diagrammatic illustration above, the glycerol molecule and the phosphate group makes up the “ hydrophilic ” head, or the water-loving part of the phospholipid.

What two parts of the phospholipid bilayer are attracted to water?

The two main parts of the Phospholipid Bilayer Hydrophillic Means attracted to water; Polar Hydrophobic Means repelled by water; Non-Polar They are stopped by the non-polar middle Why is it that water-soluble substances do not move easily through the plasma membrane

Why does the phospholipid bilayer form a closed sphere?

Interestingly, the phospholipid bilayer can form a closed sphere in order to completely remove any water molecule attached to its hydrophobic tail. Basically, the “fluid” term in the Fluid Mosaic model pertains to the ability of the proteins and lipids to move in the membrane.

What are the functions of the phospholipid bilayer?

1. Maintain The Shape Of The Cell. The inside part of the cell is mainly composed ...

What is the role of phospholipids in the cell?

In relation to its semipermeability, the phospholipid bilayer acting as a barrier between the interior and exterior cellular environment can in turn mediates the recognition process, communication, and signaling process among neighboring cells.

What is the structure of the plasma membrane?

The fundamental structure of the plasma membrane is the phospholipid bilayer which act as a barrier and carry out other specific roles in the cell. In particular, the main lipid component of the membrane are the phospholipids. Find more about these molecules and the bilayer itself by scrolling down below.

Why is the bilayer semipermeable?

Due to the unique physical and chemical properties of the phospholipids, the bilayer becomes a so-called semipermeable membrane which allows the entry of only certain molecules into the cell. In particular, it only allows nonpolar molecules like oxygen, water, and others to pass through it.

Why do phospholipids form a closed sphere?

Interestingly, the phospholipid bilayer can form a closed sphere in order to completely remove any water molecule attached to its hydrophobic tail. Basically, the “ fluid ” term in the Fluid Mosaic model pertains to the ability of the proteins and lipids to move in the membrane.

What is the amphipathic part of a phospholipid?

Phospholipids are amphipathic (double-charged) molecules composed of one glycerol molecule, one phosphate group, and two fatty acid units. As portrayed in the diagrammatic illustration above, the glycerol molecule and the phosphate group makes up the “ hydrophilic ” head, or the water-loving part of the phospholipid.

What is the bilayer of a membrane?

As shown in the diagram above, the bilayer is composed of hydrophilic (water-loving) heads that interact with the water on the outside environment, and a hydrophobic (water-fearing) tails that face each other in the inner structure of the membrane.