Home
Class 11
BIOLOGY
Lecithin is a...

Lecithin is a

A

sterol

B

glycolipid

C

phospholipid

D

sphingolipid.

Text Solution

AI Generated Solution

The correct Answer is:
**Step-by-Step Solution:** 1. **Understanding Lecithin**: Lecithin is a compound that is being examined in the context of biomolecules. It is important to identify its chemical classification. 2. **Identifying the Structure**: Lecithin is classified as a phospholipid. This means it contains a phosphate group as part of its structure. 3. **Analyzing the Components**: Lecithin is a diglyceride, which means it has two fatty acid chains attached to a glycerol backbone. Additionally, it contains a nitrogen-containing group known as choline. 4. **Function of Lecithin**: Lecithin plays a crucial role in biological systems. It is a key component of cell membranes (plasma membranes) and is also found in the alveolar walls of the lungs, where it functions as a surfactant to help increase surface area. 5. **Eliminating Other Options**: - It is not a sterol (like cholesterol). - It is not a glycolipid since it specifically contains a phosphate group. - It is also not a sphingolipid, which is associated with the myelin sheath. 6. **Conclusion**: Based on the information gathered, lecithin is best classified as a phospholipid. **Final Answer**: Lecithin is a phospholipid. ---

**Step-by-Step Solution:** 1. **Understanding Lecithin**: Lecithin is a compound that is being examined in the context of biomolecules. It is important to identify its chemical classification. 2. **Identifying the Structure**: Lecithin is classified as a phospholipid. This means it contains a phosphate group as part of its structure. 3. **Analyzing the Components**: Lecithin is a diglyceride, which means it has two fatty acid chains attached to a glycerol backbone. Additionally, it contains a nitrogen-containing group known as choline. ...
Doubtnut Promotions Banner Mobile Dark
|

Topper's Solved these Questions

  • BIOMOLECULES

    NCERT FINGERTIPS ENGLISH|Exercise Biomolecules|137 Videos
  • BIOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION

    NCERT FINGERTIPS ENGLISH|Exercise Biological Classification|132 Videos
  • BODY FLUIDS AND CIRCULATION

    NCERT FINGERTIPS ENGLISH|Exercise Body Fluids And Circulation|151 Videos

Similar Questions

Explore conceptually related problems

Assertion : Lecithin is important in membranes . Reason : It has amphipathic nature .

The difference between lectin and lecithin is :

Nitrogen base seen in lecithin is

Lecithin and cephalins are

Lecithin consists of

what is lecithin with regard to its chemical structure

Which is not a lipid ? (a) Lecithin (b) β- keratin (c) Sterol (d) wax

Which is not a lipid ? (a) Wax/lecithin (b) Sterol/cholesterol (c) Glycerol/maltose (d) Lecithin/Ghee

Read the following statements about respiratory system of humans : I. Type II alveoli help in secretion of a chemical surfactant called lecithin , which decreases the surface tension around alveoli. II. The diffusion membrane for exchange of gases is made up of three major cellular layers. III. Binding of oxygen with hemoglobin is primarily related to the partial pressure of O_2 . IV. Every 100 ml of oxygenated blood can deliver around 5 ml CO_2 to the tissues under normal physiological conditions. How many statement is /are correct from the above ?

Which of the following is not a components of Lecithin?