Fat
Tags
Biology
Cegep/1
Word count
106 words
Reading time
1 minute
Subclass of lipid
A.k.a. triglyceride or triacylglycerol
Formed by dehydration
Functions:
- Storage of energy
- Twice as much energy per gram as polysaccharides
- Protection of internal organs
- Heat isolation
Structure
Composed of:
- Glycerol
- Three fatty acids joined to glycerol by ester linkage
Types
Saturated
No
=> Straight hydrocarbon backbone
=> Compact
=> Solid at room temperature
Max cap on
From animal sources
Unsaturated
At least one
=> Bent hydrocarbon backbone
=> Less compact
=> Liquid at room temperature
From plants and fish