Components of a Micelle

In this video we see what makes up a micelle. A micelle is the formation of phospholipids forming a compartment. Phospholipids are thought to make up protobionts which are believed to be a pre-courser to all living things. Protobionts are made up of micelles. A phospholipid is made up of a phosphate head which is hydrophilic, and a hydrocarbon tail which is hydrophobic. The hydrocarbon tails are made up of fatty acid tails consisting of saturated and unsaturated fats. Micelles are important to life because they demonstrate compartmentalization which is a pre-requisite for life. Through compartmentalization the cell contains membranes which can perform and carry out different activities and functions, for example maintaining homeostasis. The example in the video of a micelle is showing how detergent molecules work to make grease soluble in water. The phosphate head is soluble in water, while the hydrocarbon tails are soluble in the grease, allowing the soap to wipe off the grease with the water. Micelles are made up of phospholipids which form a compartment within the micelle. Compartments are very important because they are a pre-requisite for life.