Membranes are composed of lipids and proteins arranged in a fluid bilayer. This structure allows membranes to compartmentalize cells and carry out functions like transport. Lipids include phospholipids that form the bilayer, with hydrophobic tails facing inward and hydrophilic heads outward. Proteins embedded in the bilayer perform roles like transporting molecules across membranes. Membranes use both passive diffusion and active transport to regulate what passes in and out. Water also crosses membranes through osmosis, regulated in cells by aquaporin channels. Membranes are dynamic structures that allow compartmentalization while maintaining functions through protein and lipid movement.