introduction to lipids

Question 1

are fatty acid chains polar or non-polar?

Answer 1

NON-POLAR

Question 2

why do lipids not form polymers?

Answer 2

lipid molecules are unable to form covalent bonds with other lipid molecules to extend itself, hence, it is not a monomer and unable to form polymers

Question 3

why are triglycerides generally hydrophobic?

Answer 3

due to the presence of non-polar fatty acid chains

Question 4

why are steroids generally hydrophobic?

Answer 4

due to the presence of non-polar hydrocarbon skeleton

Question 5

what are lipids soluble in, given that they are hydrophobic?

Answer 5

non-polar organic substances such as acetone, chloroform & ether

Question 6

what are the 3 types of lipids?

Answer 6

1. simple lipids
2. compound lipids
3. steroids

Question 7

what are simple lipids?

Answer 7

they are esters of fatty acids and alcohol

Question 8

what are compound lipids?

Answer 8

they are esters of fatty acids and alcohol, with other chemical groups attached

Question 9

what are some examples of compound lipids?

Answer 9

• phospholipids
• glycolipids

Question 10

what are the chemical groups present in phospholipids?

Answer 10

• phosphate group & small molecules such as choline

Question 11

what are the chemical groups present in glycolipids?

Answer 11

• the carbohydrate side chain

Question 12

what are steroids?

Answer 12

they are lipids with a hydrocarbon skeleton consisting of 4 fused rings