1.3 Membrane Structure

Question 1

Phospholipid bilayer

Answer 1

it is composed of two opposed layers of phospholipid molecules which are composed of a hydrophilic head and a hydrophobic tail making it form a bilayer that separates the internal environment of the cell from the external environment

Question 2

Properties of the Phospholipid Bilayer

Answer 2

The bilayer is held together by weak hydrophobic interactions between the tail.
Hydrophilic/hydrophobic layers restrict the passage of the various substances.
Individual phospholipids can move within the bilayer, allowing for membrane fluidity and flexibility
This fluidity allows for the spontaneous breaking and reforming of membranes (endocytosis/exocytosis).