What are lipids? Explain the following properties of lipids: (i) Amphipathic nature (ii) Saponification (iii) Hydrogenation
What are lipids? Explain the following properties of lipids:
(i) Amphipathic nature
(ii) Saponification
(iii) Hydrogenation
Answer
Lipids: Organic molecules that are insoluble in water but soluble in nonpolar solvents. They include fats, oils, and phospholipids.
(i) Amphipathic Nature: Lipids, such as phospholipids, have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts, allowing them to form bilayers in cell membranes.
(ii) Saponification: A chemical reaction between a lipid (usually a fat or oil) and a strong base, producing glycerol and fatty acid salts (soap).
(iii) Hydrogenation: A chemical process that adds hydrogen to unsaturated fats, converting them into saturated fats, which increases their shelf life and alters their physical properties.
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