higher proportion of H and almost insignificant proportion of O compared to carbs; higher ratio of energy storing C-H bonds to carbon atoms than carbs

-> when given mass of triglycerides oxidised during respiration, >2x amount of energy is released in the form of ATP than same mass of carbs

-> good energy source

contain more energy/g than carbs and proteins, provides the most weight-efficient means for plant/animal to store energy.

-> good energy storage molecule

large molecules, non-polar; insoluble in water.

->won't diffuse out of cell nor change water potential in cell, can be stored in large amounts in cell

-> good energy storage molecule

Review: H2 Biology 2 - Lipids