What are Lipids?
Lipids include fats, oils, and waxes. Molecules classified as lipids are relatively insoluble in water and are soluble in non-polar solvents like ether or chloroform. Dietary lipids have a high-energy content and are important sources of fat-soluble vitamins and essential fatty acids. In cellular structures, lipids form substantial portions of all membranes. Lipids are stored in adipose tissues that act as insulation, both thermal and electrical, and support and cushion internal organs. Fats are compounds composed of fatty acids bound to glycerol. The side chains or R groups of fatty acids usually contain an even number of carbon atoms in a straight chain. The carbon atoms may be joined by single (saturated) or double bonds (unsaturated).
