Lipids

Lipids are a diverse group of organic compounds that are essential for life. They play crucial roles in cell structure, energy storage, and signaling. Lipids are hydrophobic molecules, meaning they are not soluble in water. Instead, they are soluble in non-polar solvents such as chloroform, ether, and benzene. Lipids include fats, oils, phospholipids, steroids, and waxes. They are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, with a higher proportion of carbon and hydrogen atoms compared to oxygen. Lipids are a major component of the cell membrane and are vital for the proper functioning of cells and organs.