Phospholipids

Phospholipids are a class of lipids that are a major component of all cell membranes. They are made up of a glycerol molecule, two fatty acid chains, and a phosphate group.

Structure of Phosphollipids

Phospholipids have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails. The hydrophilic head is composed of a phosphate group and glycerol, while the hydrophobic tails are made up of fatty acid chains.

Function of Phospholipids

Phospholipids form a lipid bilayer in the cell membrane, with the hydrophilic heads facing the outside and inside of the cell, and the hydrophobic tails facing each other in the middle of the bilayer. This structure provides a barrier that separates the internal environment of the cell from the external environment, and controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Study Guide for Phospholipids

1. What are the components of a phospholipid molecule?
2. Describe the structure of a phospholipid.
3. Explain the function of phospholipids in the cell membrane.
4. How does the structure of phospholipids enable them to form a lipid bilayer?