Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following are the primary building blocks of fats (triglycerides)?
A
Amino acids and nucleotides
B
Glycerol and fatty acids
C
Phosphate groups and cholesterol
D
Monosaccharides and disaccharides
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of lipid composed of one glycerol molecule and three fatty acid chains. This is a key concept in biochemistry related to fats.
Review the role of glycerol: Glycerol is a three-carbon alcohol that serves as the backbone to which fatty acids are attached via ester bonds during triglyceride formation.
Examine the role of fatty acids: Fatty acids are long hydrocarbon chains with a carboxyl group (-COOH) at one end. These chains are hydrophobic and contribute to the energy storage function of triglycerides.
Compare the options provided: Amino acids and nucleotides are building blocks of proteins and nucleic acids, respectively. Phosphate groups and cholesterol are components of phospholipids and steroid molecules, not triglycerides. Monosaccharides and disaccharides are carbohydrates, not lipids.
Conclude that glycerol and fatty acids are the correct answer: These two components are the primary building blocks of triglycerides, as they combine to form the structure of fats through esterification reactions.