Hydrophilic

Definition

Hydrophilic substances are those that readily interact with or dissolve in water due to their polarity. They typically contain polar groups such as -OH, -NH2, or -COOH.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hydrophilic molecules often participate in hydrogen bonding with water.
2. Phospholipids have hydrophilic heads that face outward towards aqueous environments.
3. Hydrophilic compounds can include sugars, salts, and certain proteins.
4. The presence of hydrophilic regions is crucial for the formation of cell membranes and micelles.
5. Hydrophilic substances are generally soluble in water but not in nonpolar solvents.

Review Questions

• What types of molecular groups typically make a substance hydrophilic?
• How do hydrophilic properties affect the structure of phospholipids in cell membranes?
• Why are hydrophilic substances usually soluble in water?

Related terms

Amphipathic:

Molecules that have both hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions.

Lipophilic: Substances that tend to dissolve in lipids or fats rather than water.

Micelle: An aggregate of surfactant molecules dispersed in a liquid colloid, forming a molecular assembly with a hydrophilic exterior and a hydrophobic interior.