The phospholipid bilayer is arranged in a way where the hydrophilic heads face outward towards the aqueous environments, both inside and outside the cell, while the hydrophobic tails are oriented inward, away from water. This arrangement creates a hydrophobic core that prevents the free passage of water-soluble substances, thus controlling the internal environment of the cell. Embedded within this bilayer are proteins that assist in various functions such as transport, acting as receptors, and providing structural support.