Cell membranes are really cool because they do more than just keep things in or out. Let's look at how their structure helps them decide what can pass through:
Phospholipid Bilayer: The outer layer has parts that love water (hydrophilic heads) and parts that don’t like water (hydrophobic tails). This setup means that only certain things can get inside or outside the cell.
Proteins: There are special proteins mixed into the membrane. Some of these proteins act like doors or pumps. They help specific molecules move in and out of the cell.
Fluidity: The membrane isn’t stiff. It can change shape, which helps it control what goes in and out.
This design is super important because it helps cells keep the right conditions inside them!
Cell membranes are really cool because they do more than just keep things in or out. Let's look at how their structure helps them decide what can pass through:
Phospholipid Bilayer: The outer layer has parts that love water (hydrophilic heads) and parts that don’t like water (hydrophobic tails). This setup means that only certain things can get inside or outside the cell.
Proteins: There are special proteins mixed into the membrane. Some of these proteins act like doors or pumps. They help specific molecules move in and out of the cell.
Fluidity: The membrane isn’t stiff. It can change shape, which helps it control what goes in and out.
This design is super important because it helps cells keep the right conditions inside them!