Bilayer
Bilayer
Bilayer (pronunciation: /ˈbaɪˌleɪ.ər/) is a term used in biology and chemistry to describe a structure composed of two layers of molecules. The term is most commonly used to refer to the lipid bilayer, a fundamental component of cell membranes.
Etymology
The term "bilayer" is derived from the Latin words "bi-", meaning "two", and "layer", referring to a sheet or stratum of material.
Definition
A bilayer is a structure that consists of two layers of molecules. These layers can be identical or different, and they are usually held together by intermolecular forces, such as hydrogen bonding or van der Waals forces. In the context of cell biology, the term is often used to refer to the lipid bilayer, a structure that forms the basis of all cell membranes.
Lipid Bilayer
The lipid bilayer is a universal component of all cell membranes. It is composed of two layers of lipids, specifically phospholipids, which arrange themselves so that their hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads face outwards and their hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails face inwards. This arrangement allows the lipid bilayer to form a barrier that separates the inside of the cell from the outside environment.
Related Terms
- Phospholipid: A type of lipid molecule that is a key component of the lipid bilayer.
- Cell membrane: The structure that encloses a cell, composed primarily of a lipid bilayer.
- Hydrophilic: A term used to describe substances that are attracted to water.
- Hydrophobic: A term used to describe substances that repel water.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bilayer
- Wikipedia's article - Bilayer
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