What is the structural difference between a triglyceride and a phospholipid?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking to identify the key structural differences between triglycerides and phospholipids, which are both types of lipids. Triglycerides are primarily used for energy storage, while phospholipids are major components of cell membranes. We need to focus on the differences in their basic construction, specifically the number and type of molecules attached to the glycerol backbone.
Answer
Triglycerides have three fatty acid chains, while phospholipids have two fatty acid chains and a phosphate group.
The key structural difference is that triglycerides have three fatty acid chains attached to a glycerol backbone, while phospholipids have two fatty acid chains and a phosphate group attached to a glycerol backbone.
Answer for screen readers
The key structural difference is that triglycerides have three fatty acid chains attached to a glycerol backbone, while phospholipids have two fatty acid chains and a phosphate group attached to a glycerol backbone.
More Information
This difference in structure leads to different properties and functions: triglycerides are mainly for energy storage, while phospholipids are crucial for cell membrane structure.
Tips
A common mistake is to only mention the presence of a phosphate group in phospholipids without also noting the difference in the number of fatty acid chains.
Sources
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