Fat

Definition

Fat is a type of lipid molecule made up of glycerol and three fatty acids. It serves as a major energy storage form and plays key roles in insulation and cell membrane structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fats are also known as triglycerides, consisting of one glycerol molecule bonded to three fatty acids.
2. There are two main types of fats: saturated and unsaturated; saturated fats have no double bonds between carbon atoms, while unsaturated fats have one or more double bonds.
3. Fats are hydrophobic, meaning they do not mix with water.
4. They provide more than twice the energy per gram compared to carbohydrates or proteins.
5. In biological membranes, fats are primarily found in the form of phospholipids.

Review Questions

• What components make up a fat molecule?
• What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats?
• Why are fats considered hydrophobic?

Related terms

Lipids:

A broad group of naturally occurring molecules which include fats, oils, waxes, and certain vitamins.

Glycerol:

A simple polyol compound that forms the backbone for triglycerides.

Fatty Acids: Long hydrocarbon chains that can be either saturated or unsaturated, forming part of triglycerides and phospholipids.