Phospholipid

Phospholipids are a type of fat molecule that form the basic structure of cell membranes. They consist of two fatty acid tails and a phosphate group, creating a “head” that is hydrophilic (attracts water) and two “tails” that are hydrophobic (repel water). This unique structure allows phospholipids to arrange themselves in a double layer, with heads facing outward towards water and tails facing inward, shielding themselves from it. This arrangement is essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of cells, allowing them to create boundaries and regulate what enters and exits.