ExamplesFatsOilsWaxesSteroids
FunctionsLong-term energy storageMain component of cell membranesHormonesInsulation/cushioning
StructureLong chains of carbon (and hydrogen)Two primary molecules:
GlycerolFatty Acids
GlycerolA simple 3-carbon
alcohol
Saturated vs Unsaturated
Saturated Fatty acidsSaturated fatty acids have the maximum
number of hydrogenKnown as FATSGenerally found in animal sourcesSolids at room temperature
Unsaturated Fatty AcidsHave two or more hydrogen replaced with
double-bondsKnown as OILSGenerally found from plant sourcesLiquid at room temperature
Cis- vs Trans- Fatty acids
Cis- vs Trans- fatty acidsCis-fatty acids have the carbon on the same
side of the double-bondTrans-fatty acids have carbons on different
sides of the double bondCis-fatty acids produce a bend in the
molecule
Cis- vs Trans- Fatty acids
Degrees of Saturation
Polyunsaturated FatsHave more than one double bond
TriglyceridesOne glycerol + 3 Fatty Acids TriglycerideCan have 3 different fatty acidshydrophobic
PhospholipidsConsist of glycerol, two fatty acids and one
phosphate group
PhospholipidsAre amphiphilicMake up cell membranes
SteroidsConsist of a four-carbon ringBasis for many hormones