Question

Compare and contrast the structure and properties of triglycerides and phospholipids. [5 marks]

Accepted Answer

1. Both contain ester bonds (between glycerol and fatty acid);

2. Both contain glycerol;

3. Fatty acids on both may be saturated or unsaturated;

4. Both are insoluble in water;

5. Both contain C, H and O but phospholipids also contain P;

6. Triglyceride has three fatty acids and phospholipid has two fatty acids plus phosphate group;

7. Triglycerides are hydrophobic/non-polar and phospholipids have hydrophilic and hydrophobic region;

8. Phospholipids form monolayer (on surface)/micelle/bilayer (in water) but triglycerides don’t;

Fatty Triglycerides Acids Phospholipids Compare Contrast Structure Properties