Biology › Section B · Biological macromolecules › Topic B.3
Lipids
Lipids are the family biology defines by behaviour rather than by one structure: they are hydrophobic, dissolving in each other but not in water. That single shared trait builds cell membranes, waterproofs fur and leaves, stores a season's worth of energy — and, in the wrong amounts, narrows arteries.
In this topic
- A family united by oil, not by shape
- Fatty acids: the classic lipid parts
- Triglycerides: three tails on a spine
- Omega fatty acids: the essential kinks
- Waxes: lipids as raincoats
- Phospholipids: the membrane molecule
- Steroids: four rings, no tails
- Worked example: why oil refuses the bath
- Worked example: the arithmetic of fat storage
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Key takeaways
This topic is part of Wuanberri Pro. Checking your access…