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  • Cell Membrane Composition: Phospholipids & Proteins Explained
    The cell membrane is primarily made up of two things:

    1. Phospholipids: These are the main structural component of the cell membrane. They form a bilayer, meaning two layers of phospholipids are arranged back-to-back. Each phospholipid molecule has a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (water-fearing) tail. This structure allows the membrane to act as a barrier between the watery environment inside the cell and the watery environment outside the cell.

    2. Proteins: These are embedded within the phospholipid bilayer and play various roles:

    * Transport proteins: Help move substances across the membrane.

    * Receptor proteins: Bind to specific molecules and trigger responses inside the cell.

    * Enzymes: Catalyze chemical reactions on the cell membrane.

    * Structural proteins: Provide support and shape to the membrane.

    Therefore, the cell membrane is a dynamic and complex structure formed by the interplay of phospholipids and proteins.

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