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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a true statement comparing phospholipids and triacylglycerols (fats and oils)?
A
Both molecules contain a phosphate group.
B
Triacylglycerols may be saturated or unsaturated, but all phospholipids are saturated.
C
Phospholipids are the primary storage form for fats in our bodies.
D
In nature, phospholipids occur in fused rings (sterol form), whereas triacylglycerols maintain a straight-chain form.
E
Phospholipid molecules have a distinctly polar "head" and a distinctly nonpolar "tail," whereas triacylglycerols are predominantly nonpolar.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of phospholipids: Phospholipids consist of a glycerol backbone, two fatty acid tails, and a phosphate group attached to the glycerol. The phosphate group is polar, making the 'head' of the phospholipid polar, while the fatty acid tails are nonpolar.
Understand the structure of triacylglycerols: Triacylglycerols, also known as triglycerides, consist of a glycerol backbone and three fatty acid chains. These molecules are predominantly nonpolar due to the long hydrocarbon chains of the fatty acids.
Compare the polarity: Phospholipids have a polar 'head' due to the phosphate group and nonpolar 'tails' due to the fatty acids, making them amphipathic. Triacylglycerols lack a polar head and are mostly nonpolar.
Evaluate the statement about storage: Phospholipids are not the primary storage form for fats; triacylglycerols serve as the main storage form of energy in the body.
Consider the structural forms: Phospholipids do not occur in fused rings; they have a distinct polar head and nonpolar tails. Triacylglycerols maintain a straight-chain form, not a ring structure.