topic 5- lipids

lipids: class of molecules that do not include true polymers

-generally small in size

lipids are non-polar- hydrophobic

types of lipds:

• fats

• phospholipids

• steriods

• cholestrol

Fats

function:

-provide energy storage

-support cell function

-provide insulation to keep mammals warm

~Fats are composed of glycerol and fatty acids

3 fatty acids join to a glycerol via ester linkage

• bond between a hydroxyl and carbonxly group

—> classified as a saturated fatty acid or an unsaturated fatty acid

saturated fatty acid

single bonds between carbons in the carbon chain= more hydrogen

( think: saturated with more hydrogen)

unsaturated fatty acid

contains one or more double bonds

• the double bonds cause the fatty acids to form kinks

• the more double bonds= more liquid it is at room temperature

Phospholipids

major component of cell membranes

- 2 fatty acids attached to a glycerol and a phosphate

—> it assembles a bilayer in H2O

Tails are hydrophobic

Heads is hydrophilic

Steriods/Hormones

hormones that support physiological functions like growth and development, energy metabolism, and homeostasis

-has four fused rings

• unique groups attached to the ring determine the type of steroid

Cholesterol

provides structural stability to animal cell membranes