noun
- a molecule or substance that has both hydrophilic (water-loving) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) regions
Usage: chemistry, biochemistry
Examples
- Soap is a common amphiphile that allows oil and water to mix.
- Phospholipids are amphiphiles that form the bilayer structure of cell membranes.
- Detergents function as amphiphiles in cleaning products.
- The amphiphile molecules arranged themselves at the oil-water interface.
- Surfactants are amphiphiles widely used in industrial applications.