Lipids
What is lipid? LIPIDS The lipids are a heterogeneous group of compounds related to fatty acids. They are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ether, alcohol, chloroform and benzene. Importance of Lipids Lipids plays significant roles in living organisms. i. Structural components of the cell: Lipids, as hydrophobic compounds, are components of cellular membranes. ii. Source of energy: Lipids are also used to store energy. Because of a higher proportion of C-H bonds and a deficient proportion of oxygen, lipids store double the amount of energy as compared to the same amount of any carbohydrate iii. Insulating agent: Some lipids provide insulation, e.g. beneath the skin, against atmospheric heat and cold and also provide water protection material iv. Protection: Waxes, in the exoskeleton of insects, and cutin, an additional protective layer on the cuticle of epiderm. Get True Knowledge