SATHEE: Exemplar Problems

Biology Problems

Exemplar Problems

Question:

Explain the composition of triglyceride

Answer:

Triglycerides, also known as triacylglycerols or simply fats, are one of the most common types of lipids found in living organisms. They are composed of three fatty acid molecules chemically bonded to a glycerol molecule, and they serve as a primary form of energy storage in animals and plants. Here’s a detailed explanation of the composition of a triglyceride:

Glycerol Backbone: The core structure of a triglyceride is a glycerol molecule. Glycerol is a three-carbon alcohol with hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to each carbon atom. These hydroxyl groups are essential for linking fatty acids to the glycerol molecule through chemical reactions called esterification.

Fatty Acids: Three fatty acid molecules are attached to the glycerol backbone to form a triglyceride. Fatty acids are long hydrocarbon chains with a carboxyl group (-COOH) at one end. They can vary in length and degree of saturation (the presence of double bonds between carbon atoms). The fatty acid chains are typically hydrophobic, meaning they repel water.

Saturated Fatty Acids: These fatty acids have no double bonds between carbon atoms in their hydrocarbon chains and are saturated with hydrogen atoms. They are usually solid at room temperature and are commonly found in animal fats and some plant oils.

Unsaturated Fatty Acids: Unsaturated fatty acids have one or more double bonds between carbon atoms in their hydrocarbon chains. This introduces kinks in the chain and prevents them from packing closely together, making unsaturated fats liquid at room temperature. Unsaturated fats are commonly found in vegetable oils and fatty fish.

When fatty acids undergo esterification with glycerol, they release three water molecules, resulting in the formation of a triglyceride molecule. The ester bonds formed between the glycerol and fatty acids are relatively stable and store a significant amount of energy. This energy can be released through metabolic processes when needed, making triglycerides a valuable energy storage molecule.

Triglycerides play essential roles in energy metabolism, insulation, protection of vital organs, and the transport of dietary fats in the bloodstream. They are a critical component of the human diet and are found in various food sources, such as oils, nuts, meat, and dairy products.

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Engineering Preparation

Medical Preparation

NCERT Books & Solutions

Important Resources

Other Resources

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Mentorship

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