Lipids

Chemical Structure of Lipids

Lipids are a large group of biomolecules that generally are not soluble in water. That means they will not dissolve (mix). Lipids are large biomolecules composed of a glycerol and two or more fatty acid chains made of many carbon and hydrogen atoms. Lipids are commonly fats, oils and waxes. Lipids are used to store energy and are an important part of the cell membrane and other waterproof coverings. Because lipids contain many more carbon to hydrogen bonds, compared to carbohydrates, they contain more energy. But, because it’s difficult for organisms to break all those bonds to release energy they are not used as a main source of energy.