micella

Micella refers to a type of microscopic particle or structure, often discussed in scientific contexts. In chemistry and colloid science, a micella is a type of aggregate, typically formed by surfactant molecules in a solution. These molecules have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail. When placed in a solvent, such as water, the hydrophobic tails tend to cluster together, away from the water, while the hydrophilic heads face outwards, interacting with the solvent. This arrangement forms a spherical or ellipsoidal structure called a micelle. Micelles are important in various processes, including solubilization, where they can encapsulate nonpolar substances within their hydrophobic core, allowing them to dissolve in a polar solvent.

The concept of micella is also used in other fields. For instance, in biology, it can refer to very small biological entities or structures that are difficult to observe without magnification. The term can also be applied more generally to describe any minute, discrete unit or particle. The specific meaning of micella often depends heavily on the context in which it is used.