34. Functions of triglycerides

What are the functions of triglycerides?

Energy store, Insulation and metabolic source of water

Compare fats and oils to carbs and proteins

Have a higher calorific value + oxidises slower than carbs

What do hibernating animals do?

Store extra fat

Describe fats and oils found in seeds and fruits of many plants?

Act as an energy store for germinating seeds and young plants

What can happen to fats and oils in seeds and fruits?

Can be extracted for commercial purposes + many oil storing plants are important for agricultural crops

What can oils be extracted from?

Oilseed rape, sunflower seeds, coconuts and peanuts

What do the oils extracted from oilseed rape, sunflowers, coconuts and peanuts do?

Can be used in production of margarine + cooking oil

What can triglycerides act as? why?

A good insulator as it conducts heat slowly

Where can triglycerides be found in? (insulation)

Subcutaneous fat in mammals who live in cold climates and aquatic mammals -> heat conservation + buoyancy very important

What happens when fats are oxidised in respiration?

Lots of water is released

When is lots of water released?

When fats are oxidised in respiration

What do lots of desert animals do?

Store fat as a source of metabolic water

Who stores fat as a source of metabolic water?

Desert animals