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

2766 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the structure and function of DNA?


Explain how changes in temperature and pH affect the rate of an enzyme-catalysed reaction. Give appropriate diagrams to illustrate your answer. [6]


What happens during mitosis


Describe how the process of translation occurs during protein synthesis.


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning