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Lipids definitions

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Terms in this set (15)

  • Lipids
    Diverse macromolecules found in all living cells, characterized by their hydrophobic nature and varied structures and functions.
  • Phospholipids
    Amphipathic molecules with polar heads and nonpolar tails, forming the structural basis of cell membranes.
  • Fats
    Animal-derived lipids used for long-term energy storage, typically solid at room temperature.
  • Oils
    Plant-derived lipids serving as long-term energy reserves, usually liquid at room temperature.
  • Waxes
    Hydrophobic substances providing protection and preventing water loss, found in beeswax and earwax.
  • Steroids
    Structurally diverse lipids including sex hormones and cholesterol, important for signaling and membrane structure.
  • Cholesterol
    A steroid component of cell membranes, contributing to membrane rigidity and fluidity.
  • Hydrophobic
    Describes molecules that repel water and do not mix or dissolve well in aqueous environments.
  • Hydrophilic
    Describes molecules attracted to water, often forming the polar head of phospholipids.
  • Amphipathic
    Characteristic of molecules containing both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions, enabling membrane formation.
  • Phospholipid Bilayer
    Double-layered structure in cell membranes, composed of phospholipids with fluid and dynamic properties.
  • Fluid Mosaic Model
    Concept describing cell membranes as flexible structures with embedded proteins and assorted components.
  • Cell Membrane
    Barrier separating the cell's interior from its exterior, primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer.
  • Hydrocarbon Chains
    Nonpolar tails of phospholipids, consisting of long sequences of hydrogen and carbon atoms.
  • Selective Permeability
    Property of membranes allowing certain molecules, like small nonpolar substances, to cross freely.