AP Biology Topic 1.5 Lipids

Front

What are lipids?

Back

Lipids are a diverse group of hydrophobic organic molecules that include fats, oils, waxes, phospholipids, and steroids.

Front

What is the primary function of triglycerides?

Back

Triglycerides primarily serve as a source of energy storage in the body.

Front

What is a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid is a type of lipid that consists of two fatty acids, a glycerol backbone, and a phosphate group, making it amphipathic.

Front

How do steroid hormones enter cells?

Back

Steroid hormones are nonpolar and can easily pass through the plasma membrane without the need for transport proteins.

Front

What is the structure of a triglyceride?

Back

A triglyceride is composed of one glycerol molecule bonded to three fatty acid chains.

Front

What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids?

Back

Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds between carbon atoms, while unsaturated fatty acids contain one or more double bonds.

Front

What role do lipids play in cell membranes?

Back

Lipids, particularly phospholipids, form the bilayer structure of cell membranes, providing a barrier and facilitating cell signaling.

Front

What is a dehydration reaction in the context of lipids?

Back

A dehydration reaction in lipids involves the removal of water to form bonds, such as when fatty acids are added to glycerol to form triglycerides.

Front

What are the main functions of lipids?

Back

Lipids store energy, provide insulation, make up cell membranes, and serve as signaling molecules.

Front

What is the significance of the amphipathic nature of phospholipids?

Back

The amphipathic nature of phospholipids allows them to form bilayers in aqueous environments, essential for cell membrane structure.