Lipids characteristically
A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2008 - Paper 1
Question 8
Lipids characteristically
A. are hydrophobic.
B. catalyse reactions.
C. have a low energy content.
D. are information-storage molecules.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Lipids characteristically
A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2008 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. are hydrophobic.
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Answer
Lipids are characterized by their hydrophobic nature, meaning they repel water and do not mix well with aqueous solutions. This property is primarily due to their long hydrocarbon chains, which are non-polar.
Step 2
B. catalyse reactions.
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Answer
Lipids do not typically act as catalysts in biochemical reactions. This role is more characteristic of proteins, particularly enzymes, which facilitate various metabolic processes.
Step 3
C. have a low energy content.
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Answer
In fact, lipids are high in energy, providing a greater amount of energy per gram compared to carbohydrates and proteins. They serve as efficient energy storage molecules.
Step 4
D. are information-storage molecules.
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Answer
Lipids are not primarily used for information storage; this function is more associated with nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA.
