Question

Write short note on (i) steroids (ii) wax

Answer 1

(i) Steroids are group of biomolecules that include cholesterol. They are made up of four carbon rings and a functional group attached to it. Sex hormones like estradiol and testosterone are steroids. They are important components of cell membranes. There are two major classes of steroids, namely Corticosteroids and sex steroids. corticosteroids include glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. Sex steroids include progestogens, androgens, and estrogens.

(ii) Waxes are ester formed between a long chain of alcohol and saturated fatty acid. These are insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol and ether. The most common example of animal wax is beeswax. These are used in making candles.