1.Three fatty acids form a triglyceride with one glycerol. What similarities would the fatty acids have with polysaccharides? What differences?
2. When you consume more food than you require, the mitochondria in the liver are involved n forming triglycerides from the excess. Why is storage of triglycerides important?
3. Some excess glucose is stored as glycogen in the liver and muscle. Why is it helpful that some glucose supplies are stored as glycogen instead of being converted to triglycerides(fat)?
1. Similarities between fatty acids and polysaccharides:
a) Both fatty acids and polysaccharides are organic compounds found in living organisms.
b) Both can serve as energy storage molecules, although in different forms.
c) Both can be broken down during metabolism to release energy.
d) Both are made up of repeating units - fatty acids are composed of long chains of hydrocarbons, while polysaccharides are composed of repeating sugar units.
Differences between fatty acids and polysaccharides:
a) Fatty acids are hydrophobic molecules, which means they repel water, while polysaccharides are hydrophilic, meaning they attract water.
b) Fatty acids primarily function as energy storage molecules in the form of triglycerides, while polysaccharides often serve as structural components or energy storage molecules in the form of glycogen or starch.
c) Fatty acids are insoluble in water, while many polysaccharides are soluble.
d) Fatty acids generally contain only carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms, while polysaccharides can contain additional elements like nitrogen and phosphorus.
2. The storage of triglycerides is important for several reasons:
a) Energy Reserve: Triglycerides serve as a concentrated and readily accessible source of energy. When the body needs energy, it can break down triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol, which can then be used for fuel by various tissues and organs, especially during periods of fasting or prolonged exercise.
b) Insulation and Protection: Triglycerides are stored in adipose tissues, also known as body fat, which serve as a protective layer around organs, as well as help insulate the body to regulate body temperature.
c) Hormone Regulation: Triglycerides play a role in hormone production and regulation. Certain hormones, such as leptin and adiponectin, are released from adipose tissue and help regulate appetite, metabolism, and energy balance.
d) Fat-Soluble Vitamin Storage: Triglycerides act as a reservoir for fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K), which require dietary fats for absorption and subsequent storage.
3. Storing excess glucose as glycogen instead of converting it to triglycerides (fat) is beneficial for several reasons:
a) Rapid Energy Release: Glycogen is the primary form of stored glucose in the liver and muscles. When the body needs energy, it can quickly break down glycogen into glucose units for immediate use, providing a fast and readily available energy source.
b) Maintaining Blood Glucose Levels: The liver can release glucose from stored glycogen into the bloodstream to maintain stable blood sugar levels, ensuring a constant energy supply for the brain and other organs.
c) Efficient Storage: Glycogen is a highly branched polysaccharide, making it compact and easily stored within cells. It can be rapidly synthesized and broken down when needed, allowing for efficient storage and release of glucose.
d) Regulation of Energy Balance: By storing excess glucose as glycogen, the body can maintain energy balance. Once glycogen stores are replenished, any additional glucose can be converted into triglycerides for long-term energy storage. However, converting excessive amounts of glucose to triglycerides can lead to increased fat storage and potential health issues related to obesity.