![]() Because of its unique structure, the phospholipid bilayer plays an important role in the jobs of the cell membrane. This results in a strong and flexible barrier that successfully separates the cell’s inside from the outside world. This allows the heads to face outward, interacting with the watery environment both inside and outside the cell, while the tails huddle together, avoiding water. It has a “head” made up of a phosphate group, which is attracted to water (hydrophilic), and two fatty acid “tails” that repel water (hydrophobic). Each phospholipid molecule is a complex yet simple structure. The backbone of the cell membrane is the phospholipid bilayer, a well-organized structure mainly consisting of two layers of lipid molecules. Image source: Wikimedia Commons Component 1 of a Cell Membrane: Phospholipid Bilayer Pay particular attention to the structure of the phospholipid bilayer, the small carbohydrates on the outside, and the various proteins (represented in teal) that are throughout the membrane. ![]() This explains why the cell membrane is often called the plasma membrane.ĭiagram of a cell membrane. Additionally, since the membrane encapsulates everything within the cell, it also holds the gel-like fluid surrounding the organelles, called the protoplasm. It determines who gets to enter or leave, effectively enclosing all the cell’s internal mechanisms. Now, where is the cell membrane located in this active cellular city? It’s the city’s border- the cell membrane of an animal cell serves as the outermost layer. These organelles function as power plants that produce ATP and manufacturing centers where proteins are made. Nearby are organelles like the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. At the center is the nucleus, which acts like the city hall that guides operations and stores important information, DNA. Imagine an animal cell as a busy metropolis, with each part serving a specific role to help the city thrive. ![]() Both animal and plant cells have a lot in common but also some key differences. In order to process the structure and jobs of the cell membrane, an understanding of the general structure of a plant cell and animal cell is helpful. Conclusion: Overview of the Cell Membrane.Allows for Interaction with Other Cells and Proteins.Provides a Way for Important Molecules to Pass In or Out.Contributes to the Structural Support of a Cell.Component 3 of a Cell Membrane: Carbohydrates.Component 2 of a Cell Membrane: Proteins.Component 1 of a Cell Membrane: Phospholipid Bilayer.
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