Lipids

When we hear lipids what suddenly comes into our minds?

           Fats.. Fats.. Fats.. Yes.. Lipids are fats. Lipids are included in the group organic compounds, nonpolar organic solvents and general insolubility in water but soluble in alcohol.

          Just so you know there are two groups of lipids: complex and simple lipids.

          Complex lipids contain fatty acids and are also saponifiable – can be hydrolyzed by OH-. Complex lipids are divided into four groups: waxes, acylglycerols, phosphoglycerides, and sphingolipids. Waxes refer to the mixture of long-chain water-insoluble lipids.  It forms protective coating for plant leaves, fruits and animals. Acylglycerols are the neutral fats and is the most abundant of all the lipids. Phosphoglycerides also known as phospholipids are the main constituents of cell membranes. Sphingolipids is also a component of all cell membranes.

           Unlike complex lipids, simple lipids do not contain fatty acids and is nonsaponifiable. There are 3 groups of simple lipids: terpenes, steroids, and prostaglandin. Terpenes are produced by conifers. Examples of these are Vitamins A, E, and K. Steroids serve as sex hormones and are a component of cell membrane. Prostaglandis are mediators and are derived from fatty acids.

           This was a bit though lesson for me because our teacher explained this lesson in just a short period of time. Concept maps would be a great help to discuss this lesson easily. ^_-