Phospholipid

Definition

A phospholipid is a type of lipid molecule that is the major component of all cell membranes, consisting of two fatty acids and a phosphate group attached to a glycerol backbone. These molecules are amphipathic, meaning they have both hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails and hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads, enabling them to form bilayers that make up cell membranes.

Related terms

Lipid Bilayer:

A double layer of phospholipids that forms the primary structure of all cell membranes, where the hydrophobic tails face inward and the hydrophilic heads face outward.

Hydrophilic:

Refers to molecules or portions of molecules that are attracted to water and can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules.

Hydrophobic:

Describes molecules or parts of molecules that repel water and tend to be nonpolar, avoiding interactions with water