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Phospholipid facts for kids

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Phospholipid TvanBrussel
Phospholipid
Phospholipid Chemicalmakeup
The left image shows a phospholipid, and the right image shows the chemical makeup.
Cell membrane detailed diagram 4
Cell membranes consist of phospholipid bilayers

Phospholipids are a type of fat that contain phosphorus. They are major parts of all cell membranes because they form lipid bilayers.

Phospholipid molecules usually have hydrophobic tails and a hydrophilic head. Biological membranes in eukaryotes also contain another class of lipid, sterols. These are spaced out among the phospholipids. Together they provide membrane fluidity and mechanical strength. Purified phospholipids are produced commercially and have found applications in nanotechnology and materials science.

Images for kids

  • Phospholipid TvanBrussel.edit

    Phospholipid arrangement in cell membranes.

See also

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