BIO1010 Module 5: Macromolecules 2 - Lipids

A set of flashcards designed to help students review key vocabulary and concepts related to lipids in their BIO1010 module.

Lipid

A diverse group of hydrophobic biological molecules that include fats, oils, and steroids.

Amphipathic

A molecule possessing both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) properties.

Ester linkage

A bond formed between a hydroxyl group and a carboxyl group, linking glycerol to fatty acids in lipids.

Triglycerides

A type of lipid composed of three fatty acids linked to glycerol; primary form of stored energy in animals.

Unsaturated fatty acids

Fatty acids that contain one or more double bonds between carbon atoms, causing bends in their structure.

Saturated fatty acids

Fatty acids with no double bonds between carbon atoms; they are fully saturated with hydrogen atoms.

Phospholipids

Lipids that consist of two fatty acids and a phosphate group attached to glycerol; essential components of cell membranes.

Cholesterol

A type of steroid that is an important component of cell membranes and a precursor for many hormones.

Steroids

A class of lipids characterized by a carbon skeleton with four fused rings, playing roles in signaling and structure.

Phospholipid bilayer

A double layer of phospholipids that forms a cell membrane, created when phospholipids arrange themselves with hydrophobic tails facing inward and hydrophilic heads facing outward.