adjective
- having both hydrophilic (water-loving) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) regions or properties
Usage: chiefly used in chemistry and biochemistry; commonly applied to molecules such as surfactants, detergents, and phospholipids
Examples
- Soap is an amphipathic molecule that can dissolve both in water and in oil.
- Phospholipids are amphipathic compounds that form the bilayer structure of cell membranes.
- The amphipathic nature of detergents allows them to break down grease and dirt.
- Amphipathic proteins can interact with both aqueous and lipid environments.
- Scientists study amphipathic molecules to develop better cleaning products and pharmaceuticals.