Across cell membranes
, Phospholipid bilayer
• Phospholipids have hydrophilic heads and
hydrophobic tails
• Hydrophilic heads point outwards, attracted
water on both sides
• Hydrophobic tails point inwards, repelled by
the water on both sides
• Allows lipid-soluble substances to enter and
exit but not water-soluble substances
• Membrane is flexible and self-sealing (it can
join up to itself easily)