A micell is a term primarily used in chemistry and colloid science that refers to a self-assembled arrangement of molecules or ions in a solution. It is a cluster of amphiphilic molecules, which have both hydrophilic (water-loving) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) regions. The hydrophilic portion of the amphiphilic molecule tends to face towards the solvent, while the hydrophobic portion prefers to remain shielded from the surrounding medium.
When dispersed in a solvent such as water, the amphiphilic molecules spontaneously unite to form micelles due to the inherent driving force to reduce energy and minimize exposure of hydrophobic portions to water. Within a micellar structure, the hydrophobic tails of the amphiphiles cluster together, forming a core, while the hydrophilic heads surround the core, facing outward towards the solvent.
Micelles are typically spherical or ellipsoidal in shape with diameters ranging from a few nanometers to several hundred nanometers. They can exist in various systems, including detergents, emulsions, and biological membranes. Micelles play a crucial role in various chemical and biological processes, including solubilization of hydrophobic drugs, cellular transport of lipids, and cleansing properties in soaps and detergents.
In summary, a micell is a self-assembled cluster of amphiphilic molecules in a solution, characterized by a hydrophobic core and hydrophilic outer layer. They are vital for numerous natural and industrial processes, acting as carriers, solubilizers, and stabilizers in various applications.
