BILAYER Meaning and
Definition
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A bilayer refers to a structure consisting of two layers or sheets that are closely aligned and parallel to each other. This term finds extensive use in various scientific disciplines, particularly in biology, chemistry, and material sciences. In biology, a bilayer commonly refers to the arrangement of lipids in a biological membrane. Lipid bilayers are an essential component of cellular membranes and play a crucial role in maintaining cell integrity. They consist of two layers of lipids, with their hydrophilic (water-loving) head groups facing outwards towards the surrounding environment and their hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails facing inwards, thereby creating a barrier between the inside and the outside of the cell.
Apart from biology, the concept of a bilayer also finds application in other scientific fields. For instance, in materials science, a bilayer can refer to the deposition of two layers of different materials on a substrate to create specific properties or functionalities. In chemistry, a bilayer may describe the arrangement of two different compounds or phases in a layered structure.
Overall, the term "bilayer" signifies a structure consisting of two closely aligned and parallel layers. Its versatility allows it to be used to describe various arrangements in different scientific fields, with its most common application being the lipid bilayers in biological membranes.
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Similar spelling word for BILAYER
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