Question

What is the biological significance of lipids?

Answer 1

Lipids:

1. They are organic compounds that contain hydrogen, carbon and oxygen atoms.
2. They form the framework for the structure and function of living cells.
3. They are soluble only in non-polar solvents.

The biological significance of lipids:

1. Structural lipids form the material of the biological membrane. Example: Phospholipid
2. They are stored as reserve food.
3. Forms protective coverings of fruits, leaves, etc in plants and hair, fur, etc in animals.
4. Fats are deposited around the vital structures for protection against pressure and mechanical injury.
5. Steroids in the form of hormones control many physiological processes.