One of the most common types of lipids. Comprised of a molecule of glycerol and three fatty acids which can vary in length shape and type. These fatty acids are joined to the glycerol molecule with an ester bond
Fat
Saturated
no double bonds
solid at 20 degrees
Oil
Unsaturated
double bonds
liquid of 20 degrees
Why are lipids good energy reserve
Triglycerides are broken down to release glycerol and fatty acids. Glycerol and be converted into glucose and used as a source of energy,however the majority of energy provided by lipids come from the breakdown of fatty acids
Lipids are important for:
digestion and transportation of fat soluble vitamins
insulate the body
protect vital organs
maintain body’s temperature
used in nerves to insulate axons by forming the myelin sheath to electrochemical impulses to travel faster
make up phospholipids in call membranes
what is a lipid
it’s a collective term to describe a range of organic compounds such as fats, oils, phospholipids, waxes, steroids and such
