Meaning & use
amphipathic
Last updated
having both a water-attracting (hydrophilic) part and a water-repelling (hydrophobic) part, as in certain molecules.
See it in a sentence
Phospholipids are amphipathic molecules, which allows them to form the cell membrane's double layer.
Soap works because its amphipathic molecules can bind to both grease and water.
A note on using this word
Key to understanding cell membranes and detergents, since the dual nature lets these molecules interact with both water- and oil-based substances.
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