Examples Fats Oils Waxes Steroids
Functions Long-term energy storage Main component of cell membranes Hormones Insulation/cushioning
Structure Long chains of carbon (and hydrogen) Two primary molecules: Glycerol Fatty Acids
Glycerol A simple 3-carbon alcohol
Fatty Acids
Saturated vs Unsaturated
Saturated Fatty acids Saturated fatty acids have the maximum number of hydrogen Known as FATS Generally found in animal sources Solids at room temperature
Unsaturated Fatty Acids Have two or more hydrogen replaced with double- bonds Known as OILS Generally found from plant sources Liquid at room temperature
Cis- vs Trans- Fatty acids
Cis- vs Trans- fatty acids Cis-fatty acids have the carbon on the same side of the double-bond Trans-fatty acids have carbons on different sides of the double bond Cis-fatty acids produce a bend in the molecule
Cis- vs Trans- Fatty acids
Degrees of Saturation
Polyunsaturated Fats Have more than one double bond
Triglycerides
One glycerol + 3 Fatty Acids Triglyceride Can have 3 different fatty acids hydrophobic
Phospholipids Consist of glycerol, two fatty acids and one phosphate group
Phospholipids Are amphiphilic Make up cell membranes
Steroids Consist of a four-carbon ring Basis for many hormones
Steroid Hormones