Lipids and Membranes Flashcards
What are lipids?
Lipids are a broad class of organic molecules that dissolve in non-polar solvents and serve various functions in organisms.
What role do lipids play in organisms?
Lipids serve as fat energy molecules, form the basis of cell wall structures, act as vitamins, and play critical roles in the nervous system.
Why is the definition of lipid broad?
The definition is broad because lipids are defined by their function rather than a specific structure, and they share the characteristic property of being nonpolar.
What is a characteristic physical property of lipids?
Lipids are nonpolar.
What are carotenoid molecules?
Carotenoid molecules are a type of lipid that possess vibrant colors and serve various functions, including coloration in animals.
What is zeaxanthin?
Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid compound that contributes to the yellow color of certain organisms, including the yellow finch.
What can zeaxanthin protect against?
Zeaxanthin can protect organisms, like the bacterium Pedobacter heparinus, from harmful effects of UV rays.
List the five types of lipids covered in this module.
- Fatty acids
- Triacylglycerols
- Phosphoglycerides
- Sphingophospholipids
- Isoprenoid compounds
True or False: There is a standard set of compounds that define lipids.
False
Fill in the blank: Lipids are classified by _______.
[structure]
