What functional groups are found in lipids?

Prepare for the IB Biology Exam. Study with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Master key concepts and excel in your test!

Lipids are characterized by the presence of specific functional groups that contribute to their structure and properties. The correct answer identifies carboxyl and methyl groups as key functional groups found in many lipids.

The carboxyl group (-COOH) is significant in fatty acids, which are crucial components of lipids such as triglycerides and phospholipids. The carboxyl group gives fatty acids their acidic properties and is involved in the formation of ester bonds when fatty acids react with glycerol to form triglycerides.

The methyl group (-CH3), which is non-polar, plays a critical role in the hydrophobic nature of lipids. This non-polar characteristic is crucial for membrane structure, as it contributes to the formation of lipid bilayers, where the hydrophobic tails of phospholipids face inward, away from water.

In summary, the combination of carboxyl and methyl groups is essential in defining the structural features and functional roles of lipids in biological systems.

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