9700 · 2.2
Carbohydrates and lipids — FAQ
Frequently asked questions for 9700 Carbohydrates and lipids. Direct answers first, then deeper explanation — then practise with marking.
What are the key differences between carbohydrates and lipids in Cambridge Biology 9700?
Carbohydrates (e.g., glucose, starch) are for short- and medium-term energy and structural roles (cellulose). They have a general formula Cₓ(H₂O)y and are often polar. Lipids (e.g., triglycerides) are for long-term energy storage, insulation, and membrane structure. They have proportionally less oxygen, are non-polar, and thus insoluble in water, yielding more energy per gram.
How do condensation and hydrolysis apply to both carbohydrate and lipid synthesis and breakdown?
Both use these reactions. In carbohydrates, monosaccharides join via condensation to form glycosidic bonds, releasing water. Hydrolysis breaks these bonds by adding water. In lipids, fatty acids and glycerol join via condensation to form ester bonds, releasing water. Hydrolysis breaks these ester bonds. Remember the specific bond type for each molecule class.
Why is the high tensile strength of cellulose important for plants?
The high tensile strength of cellulose, due to hydrogen-bonded microfibrils, provides rigidity to the plant cell wall. This prevents the cell from bursting when it takes in water by osmosis (maintains turgor pressure) and provides overall structural support to the plant.
What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids?
Saturated fatty acids have no carbon-carbon double bonds in their hydrocarbon tails, making them straight and able to pack closely, resulting in solids at room temperature (fats). Unsaturated fatty acids have one or more C=C double bonds, which create kinks in the tails, preventing close packing and resulting in liquids at room temperature (oils).