Question

Composed of a phospholipid bilayer

Answer 1

The phospholipid bilayer consists of two layers of phospholipids that create a hydrophobic interior and hydrophilic exterior, forming the core structure of the cell membrane. This dynamic barrier regulates substance passage and houses proteins for various cell functions.

Phospholipid Bilayer Structure

The phospholipid bilayer is a fundamental component of all cell membranes.

It consists of two layers of phospholipids, with each molecule featuring a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (water-hating) tail.

The hydrophilic heads face the aqueous environments on either side of the membrane, while the hydrophobic tails point inward, shielding themselves from water and creating a hydrophobic interior. This arrangement creates a barrier that regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell.

In the bilayer, the phospholipids are arranged with their heads pointing outward towards the water on either side of the membrane and their tails tucked inwards.

Cell membranes not only provide a physical boundary but also house various proteins with roles in transport, communication, and structural support.

The bilayer's structure is dynamic, allowing for the fluidity required for cell function and integrity.

Additionally, cholesterol and other lipids are interspersed within the bilayer, contributing to membrane fluidity and stability.

Answer 2

The phospholipid bilayer builds the principle structural frame of the plasma membrane of the cell.

Step-by-step explanation:

The plasma membrane of both plant and animal cell contain phospholipid bilayer in which the head group of the Phospholipid are oriented in opposite direction with respect to each other whereas the fatty acid tails of the two layers faces each other each other in the phospholipid bilayer.

The polar head group is present in the hydrophilic region whereas the non polar fatty acid tails are present in the hydrophobic region.

Beside phospholipid glycolipid,cholesterol and proteins are also present in the phospholipid bilayer.

Glycolipid contain oligosaccharide chain which play an important role in recognisation and binding of various molecules. Membrane proteins helps in the transport of various molecules in and out of the cell.whereas cholesterol regulates membrane fluidity.