Lipids ( triglycerides )

• What elements do lipids contain?

  Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen
• How do the oxygen levels in lipids compare to carbohydrates?

  Lipids contain less oxygen than carbohydrates
• Why aren't lipids considered polymers?

  They do not contain repeating units
• What forces allow lipids to form molecules together?

  ester bond
• What are the main functions of lipids?

  • Energy source
  • Energy storage
  • Insulation
  • Buoyancy
• What role do triglycerides play in energy supply?

  They serve as short-term fuel and produce ATP
• How do triglycerides contribute to energy storage?

  They furnish a slow energy supply
• What is the function of adipose tissue?

  It helps insulate the skin and offers heat insulation
• Why do lipids provide buoyancy?

  Because they are less dense than water
• What are the two main types of lipids mentioned?

  Triglycerides and phospholipids
• What is the structure of a triglyceride?

  • Composed of one glycerol molecule
  • Attached to three fatty acid molecules
• What are fatty acids composed of?

  Long amphipathic molecules with a non-polar hydrocarbon chain and a carboxyl group
• How can the hydrocarbon chain of fatty acids vary?

  It can vary in length and number of hydrogen units
• What distinguishes unsaturated fatty acids from saturated fatty acids?

  Unsaturated fatty acids contain C=C double bonds
• What is the melting point characteristic of saturated fatty acids?

  They have a high melting point and are solid at room temperature
• Where are saturated fatty acids commonly found?

  In warm-blooded animals, e.g., butter and lard
• What is the characteristic of unsaturated fatty acids regarding their state at room temperature?

  They are liquid at room temperature
• Why do unsaturated fatty acids have a lower melting point?

  Because they have C=C double bonds that prevent close packing
• What is an example of an unsaturated fatty acid?

  Fish oil
• What is an example of a saturated fatty acid?

  Butter