Question

How are phospholipids similar to lipids such as triglycerides? How are they different?

Answer 1

Hint: Lipids are macromolecules that consist of hydrocarbons. They are soluble in non polar solvents. Lipids consist of fatty acids esterified with glycerol, few of their derivatives include monoglyceride, diglyceride, triglyceride, phospholipids as well as cholesterol.

Complete answer:
Triglycerides are esters of glycerol with three fatty acid moieties and make up the main constituent of body fat as well as vegetable fat. The three fatty acids are generally different, they can be saturated with only single bonds as well as unsaturated with presence of double bonds. Phospholipids are types of lipids that contain a hydrophilic head consisting of a phosphate group and two hydrophobic tails consisting of fatty acids which are joined by alcohol residue. Phospholipids make up cell membranes in eukaryotic cells. Phospholipids are similar to triglycerides In having fatty acid residues as part of their structure.
Phospholipids are different from triglycerides in having a phosphate group as a result of which they are partially soluble in water, whereas triglycerides are completely insoluble in water. As a result of this difference in composition these two kinds of lipids serve different functions in the body.

Note: Apart from serving as a component of cell membrane and fat storage for energy, lipids act as signaling molecules in the activation of GPCR and nuclear receptors. Lipids also make up vitamins, vitamin A, D, E and K that serve as essential nutrients to the body. Lipids also serve as an important constituent of steroid hormones.