Triglycerides

• What are lipids scientifically known as?

  Molecules found in fats and oils
• What is one major function of lipids in the human diet?

  They are a major source of energy
• Name two sources of lipids.

  Olive oil and butter
• How do lipids function in energy storage?

  They are stored in adipose tissue
• What role does adipose tissue play in the body?

  It insulates the body and stores energy
• Where is adipose tissue found in humans?

  Under the skin and around organs
• How do lipids provide waterproofing?

  Oils coat feathers of aquatic birds
• What are the two main categories of lipids?

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

  One glycerol bonded to three fatty acids
• What are the two key parts of a fatty acid molecule?

  Carboxylic group and carbon chain
• What characterizes a saturated fatty acid?

  Only single covalent bonds between carbons
• What is a monounsaturated fatty acid?

  It has one double covalent bond
• What defines a polyunsaturated fatty acid?

  It has multiple double covalent bonds
• What is the process of forming triglycerides called?

  Esterification
• What type of bond forms between glycerol and fatty acids?

  Ester bond
• What is produced during the formation of triglycerides?

  A molecule of water
• What reaction breaks down triglycerides in the digestive system?

  Hydrolysis reaction
• What do lipase enzymes do in the digestive system?

  Break ester bonds in triglycerides
• Why are triglycerides considered hydrophobic?

  They are non-polar molecules
• How does the structure of triglycerides relate to their energy storage?

  They contain many carbon and hydrogen atoms
• What are the functions of lipids?

  • Major source of energy
  • Energy storage in adipose tissue
  • Insulation to reduce heat loss
  • Waterproofing for organisms
  • Structural components of membranes
• What is the structure of a triglyceride?

  • One glycerol molecule
  • Three fatty acid molecules
  • Formed by ester bonds
  • Involves a condensation reaction
• What are the types of fatty acids?

  • Saturated: only single bonds
  • Monounsaturated: one double bond
  • Polyunsaturated: multiple double bonds
• What happens during the hydrolysis of triglycerides?

  • Ester bonds are broken
  • Glycerol and fatty acids are released
  • Requires three water molecules
• Why are triglycerides used for waterproofing?

  • They are hydrophobic
  • They do not dissolve in water
  • They protect against water loss