Difference Between Lipids And Fats

Fats differ from a few lipids in physical as well as chemical properties and play a crucial role in metabolic and chemical functions. Lipase is an enzyme which breaks down lipids and fats in the human body. This enzyme is produced by the pancreas.

Fats are divided into unsaturated fats and saturated fats. Trans fats and cis fats come under the category of unsaturated fats. Lipids are hydrophobic in nature. They form various structures such as liposomes, membranes or vesicles with their amphiphilic nature.

Two types of biological building-block lipids are isoprene groups and ketoacyl. The eight categories of lipids are glycerolipids, polyketides, fatty acids, prenol lipids, sphingolipids, glycerophospholipids, saccharolipids, and sterol lipids. Below are the major differences between lipids and fats.

Also read: What are Fats

Lipids vs Fats

Following are the important difference between lipids and fats:

Lipids Overview

Lipids are organic biomolecules insoluble in water, but in organic solvents, these are soluble. There are three different types – phospholipids, triglycerides, and steroids. Triglycerides are the largest class of lipids. These are also known as natural fats. Phospholipids are the derivatives of triglycerides and comprise two fatty acid molecules. Steroids are hydrophobic molecules and are present as cholesterol and hormones in the body.

Fats Overview

These are oily substances found beneath the skin or surrounding the organs. Due to a high saturation rate, fats are solids at room temperature. Unsaturated fats are known as oils that are liquids at room temperature. Unsaturated fats are good for health since they increase good cholesterol levels. This prevents heart diseases in humans.

Also read: What are Lipids

These were some of the important differences between Lipids and Fats. To learn more about other interesting Biology topics, register at BYJU’S – The Learning App.