Biochemistry : Identifying Specific Lipid Structures

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Biochemistry

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Example Questions

Example Question #61 : Identifying Biochemical Molecules

Which of the following are true about phospholipids in structure?

I. Phospholipids consist of a polar group and nonpolar fatty acids, connected by glycerol.

II. Glycerophospholipids are a type of phospholipids and are composed of choline, phosphate, glycerol, and two fatty acids.

III. Sphingolipids, like sphingomyelin, are a type of phospholipids that have choline, phosphate, sphingosine groups and only one fatty acid. 

Possible Answers:

II and III

II only

I only

I and III

I, II, and III

Correct answer:

I, II, and III

Explanation:

Phospholipids have two fatty acid chains, with a length of 14-20 carbon atoms each, that attach to the carbons of the glycerol molecule. Examples of glycerophospholipids are phosphatidyl glycerol (PG). Examples of sphingolipids, like sphingomyelin, have choline, phosphate, sphingosine groups and only one fatty acid.

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