triglycerides

what type molecule is a triglyceride?

lipid - not a polymer

what is a triglyceride?

a molecule of lipid where one molecule of glycerol bonds with three fatty acids in a condensation reaction

what is an ester bond?

a bond formed between a glycerol and fatty acid

what are the functions of triglycerides?

• store of energy

• produces metabolic water

• insulate body and protect vital organs

• insulate nerve cells to make signals go in the right direction

properties (energy)

large ratio of energy storing carbon-hydrogen compared to number of carbon atoms

properties (water)

• release water when oxidised

• due to high number of hydrogen atom to oxygen atoms

• essential for dessert animals

what are the other two properties?

• insoluble: due to non-polar structure, do not affect water potential

• low mass: lots can be stored without increasing mass

what is a saturated fat?

no C=C bonds; bonded to max number of hydrogen atoms

what is an unsaturated fat?

one C=C bond is present, which causes bonds to link

what is a polyunsaturated fat?

multiple C=C bonds