Why do fats store more energy than carbohydrates?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the reason why fats are more efficient at storing energy compared to carbohydrates. This involves understanding the biochemical properties of fats and carbohydrates and how they are utilized by the body for energy.
Answer
Fats have more carbon-hydrogen bonds and are less oxidized.
Fats store more energy than carbohydrates because they have more carbon-hydrogen bonds and are less oxidized.
Answer for screen readers
Fats store more energy than carbohydrates because they have more carbon-hydrogen bonds and are less oxidized.
More Information
Fats are a dense energy source due to their chemical structure, providing 9 calories per gram compared to 4 calories per gram from carbohydrates.
Tips
Confusing the difference in oxidation states and bond types between fats and carbohydrates can lead to misunderstanding why fats store more energy.
Sources
- Lipid Metabolism - LibreTexts - bio.libretexts.org
- 3CP Explain why fats contain ~38 kJ per gram - Vaia - vaia.com
- Why do lipids generate twice as much energy as carbohydrates? - Echemi - echemi.com
