Which biomolecule class stores energy and provides insulation?

Study for the Leaving Certificate Biology Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to enhance learning. Get ready to excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which biomolecule class stores energy and provides insulation?

Explanation:
Lipids store energy efficiently and provide insulation. Their long hydrocarbon chains yield a high energy density, so energy can be stored in fat tissue as triglycerides in adipose tissue. This same adipose layer also acts as insulation, helping to reduce heat loss and cushion organs. Lipids are hydrophobic, so storing energy as fat avoids adding extra water weight, unlike carbohydrates which bind water and store less energy per gram. Proteins and nucleic acids have important roles in structure, catalysis, and genetic information but aren’t primary energy stores or insulators.

Lipids store energy efficiently and provide insulation. Their long hydrocarbon chains yield a high energy density, so energy can be stored in fat tissue as triglycerides in adipose tissue. This same adipose layer also acts as insulation, helping to reduce heat loss and cushion organs. Lipids are hydrophobic, so storing energy as fat avoids adding extra water weight, unlike carbohydrates which bind water and store less energy per gram. Proteins and nucleic acids have important roles in structure, catalysis, and genetic information but aren’t primary energy stores or insulators.

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