Large Molecules Problem Set

Problem 4: Identification of another biological molecule

Tutorial to help answer the question

The structure shown in the diagram is an example of a lipid.

Tutorial

The feature of this molecule that can be most easily recognized is the three fatty acids with long, hydrophobic tails consisting mostly of repeats of -CH₂- groups. The three fatty acids are covalently linked to a glycerol. This compound is a neutral fat of the type used to store reserves of energy in our fatty (adipose) tissues.