amphiphile
/ˈæmfɪfaɪl/
noun
- A molecule that has both a water-loving (hydrophilic) part and a water-fearing (hydrophobic) part, such as a soap or detergent molecule.
- Scientists study how each amphiphile behaves in different liquids to create better cleaning products.
- The cell membrane is made of amphiphiles that arrange themselves into a double layer.
- An amphiphile can form bubbles called micelles when mixed with water and oil.
Synonyms