What type of molecules are lipids in terms of polarity?
Non polar, meaning they are hydrophobic.
What types of solvents do lipids dissolve in?
Organic solvents, like ethanol
what 2 molecules make a lipid?
Fatty acids and glycerol
describe the structure of a triglyceride?
Glycerol backbone with three fatty acid chains attached.
Describe the structure of a phospholipid?
Phospholipids have a phosphate group hydrophilic head and two hydrophobic fatty acid chains
how are triglycerides formed?
They are formed via a condensation reaction between one glycerol molecule and 3 fatty acids
what bond is formed between glycerol and fatty acids in lipids?
ester
what is a saturated fatty acid?
The hydrocarbon chain only has single bonds
What is an unsaturated fatty acid?
A fatty acid with one or more double bonds in its carbon chain.
why does the structure of lipids allow them to transfer energy?
Due to the large ratio of energy storing carbon to hydrogen bonds, compared to the number of carbon atoms, a lot of energy can be transferred when broken down.
why does the structure of lipids allow them to act as a metabolic water source?
Triglycerides can release water when oxidised, this is due to the high ratio of hydrogen to oxygen atoms.
why does the structure of lipids make them insoluble in water?
They are insoluble in water due to their large size. this means they will not impact water potential, and osmosis.
Why is the fact that lipids are low in mass a good thing for animals?
Lipids are relatively low in mass, lots can be stored in an animal without increasing the mass and preventing movement
how are phospholipids formed?
A condensation reaction between the glycerol molecule and 2 fatty acids- forming two ester bonds