The term “hydrophilic” refers to a property of a substance that allows it to interact with, dissolve in, or mix with water. Substances that are hydrophilic have a strong affinity for water and are soluble in water.
In contrast, substances that are not soluble in water and do not interact well with it are referred to as hydrophobic, or “water-fearing.” These substances tend to repel water and are generally not soluble in it.
The hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties of a substance are determined by its chemical structure, including the types and arrangements of atoms and bonds within the substance.
Examples of hydrophilic substances include sugars, salts, and alcohols. Hydrophobic substances include oils, fats, and waxes.
The hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties of a substance can play important roles in biological processes, such as the transport of molecules across cell membranes, the formation of micelles in digestive processes, and the stability of proteins. Understanding the hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties of substances can also be important in a variety of industrial and technological applications, such as the design of drug delivery systems, the creation of emulsions, and the production of hydrogels.
