The cell membrane controls what enters and exits the cell. It is made up of a phospholipid bilayer with proteins embedded. Phospholipids have hydrophobic fatty acid tails and hydrophilic phosphate heads, arranging in a bilayer. Proteins allow selective permeability and perform functions like transport. Movement across the membrane includes passive diffusion, facilitated diffusion through protein channels, and active transport using protein pumps and ATP. Water moves across by osmosis, from high to low concentration areas. Cells regulate water balance in different conditions like hypotonic, hypertonic, and isotonic environments.