Name: Richard

ElementsHydrogenCarbonOxygenPhosphorusSometimes another element,Such as nitrogen

Structure- SubunitsA phospholipid is made up

of the following:- a hydrophilic head- 2 hydrophobic tails (fatty acids)

The hydrophilic head is made up of a glycerol, a phosphate group, and another group attached to the phosphate group (varies)

Functional GroupsCarbonyl groups (>C=O)Phosphate groups (-PO4)Hydroxyl Group (-OH)Carboxyl Group (-COOH)

The phosphate group is found in the hydrophilic head, while carbonyl groups and carboxyl groups are found in the fatty acid chains in the hydrophobic tails. The glycerol contains the hydroxyl group.

Organic CompoundPhospholipids are LIPIDS

Other lipids include fats and steroids

Functions of FamilyThe biggest function of fats is energy storage

(store more than polysaccharides)The energy reserves are stored in adipose

cellsSteroids (cholesterol) produce hormonesFats also cushion vital organsA layer of blubber insulates organisms from

cold

Function of PhospholipidsPhospholipids join together to form

phospholipid bilayers. This is the major component of the cell membrane.

Phospholipids help transfer biological signals across the cell membrane, they form a barrier between the cell and the exterior.

Reasons we’re good parents (and uncle)1. The phospholipids form the membrane

around our cells, shielding the contents.

2. The phospholipids help aid the transfer of fat in our digestion

3. We need the phospholipids to help transfer signals across the membrane.