Lipids are a diverse group of hydrophobic organic molecules essential for cell structure, energy storage, and signaling. They include fats, oils, waxes, phospholipids, and steroids.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Lipids are key components of cell membranes, forming the bilayer that separates the interior of the cell from its environment.
Phospholipids have a hydrophilic head and two hydrophobic tails, making them crucial in membrane structure and function.
Steroids such as cholesterol play a role in membrane fluidity and serve as precursors for hormone synthesis.
Lipids store more energy per gram than carbohydrates or proteins due to their high proportion of carbon-hydrogen bonds.
Fatty acids can be saturated (no double bonds) or unsaturated (one or more double bonds), affecting their physical properties and biological roles.
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Related terms
Carbohydrates: Organic molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen that serve as a major energy source.