Lipids 1: Triglycerides 2.2.6 Flashcards
What are the 4 main types of lipids?
Phospholipids, triglycerides, glycolipids, and cholesterol
Why are triglycerides not polymers?
As they do not contain repeating monomers. They are a macromolecule instead.
What are triglycerides made up of?
A glycerol and 3 fatty acids
Which components make up a glycerol?
A 3 carbon molecule with three OH groups
What makes up a fatty acid molecule?
A carboxyl group (-COOH) on one end, attached to a hydrocarbon tail (only carbon and hydrogen atoms) which can be from 2 to 20 carbons long.
What indicates that a fatty acid is saturated?
No C=C (double bonds) are present in the hydrocarbon chain
What indicates that a fatty acid is unsaturated?
Double bonds present in the hydrocarbon chain, meaning less hydrogens can bond.
Where are saturated fatty acids found?
Solid fats, e.g. butter, cakes
Where are unsaturated fatty acids found?
Liquid fats, e.g. oils, avocadoes
What does a single C=C bond mean?
It is a monounsaturated fatty acid
What does it mean if a fatty acid has more than one C=C bond?
A polyunsaturated fatty acid
Why are unsaturated fatty acids liquid?
As the double bond causes a kink in the chain, pushing molecules apart.
What bond is present between a fatty acid and glycerol molecule?
Ester bond
What reaction bonds a fatty acid and glycerol molecule?
Condensation reaction
Give 3 functions of a triglyceride
- Protection
- Buoyancy
- Energy store
Why are triglycerides good for protection?
Humans have fat around delicate organs, such as their kidneys.
- Acts as a shock absorber
Why are triglycerides good for buoyancy?
As fat is less dense than water
Why are triglycerides a good energy store?
As they are insoluble in water, they can be stored without affecting the water potential of the cell.
