ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Cell membrane

The cell membrane is like a protective wall that surrounds every cell in our body. Just like how a house has walls and a fence, a cell has a cell membrane.

Now, imagine that the cell membrane is made up of tiny little pieces that are like Lego blocks. These Lego blocks are called phospholipids. Together, they form a layer around the cell that keeps everything inside of it safe.

But, there's more to the cell membrane than just these Lego blocks. There are also little gates called ion channels that let important molecules in and out of the cell. Imagine that these little gates are like a security guard letting people in and out of a building.

Another important feature of the cell membrane is proteins. These proteins help the cell communicate with its surroundings and also help with important functions like moving substances in and out of the cell.

Finally, the cell membrane also has carbohydrates attached to its surface. These carbohydrates act like little identification tags that help the cell identify other cells and substances around it.

So, in summary, the cell membrane is like a protective wall made up of little Lego blocks called phospholipids. It has gates called ion channels, proteins that help with communication, and carbohydrates that act like identification tags. All of these features work together to keep the cell safe and help it function properly.