Cholesterol is a

Options

A. simple lipid
B. phospholipid
C. derived lipid
D. glycolipd

Answer

To answer the question "Cholesterol is a ___," we will analyze the characteristics and classifications of cholesterol step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Cholesterol**:
- Cholesterol is a type of lipid molecule that is crucial for various biological functions. It is classified as a sterol, which is a subgroup of steroids.

2. **Classification of Lipids**:
- Lipids can be categorized into different types, including simple lipids, compound lipids, and derived lipids. Cholesterol falls under the category of derived lipids due to its structure and function.

3. **Role of Cholesterol**:
- Cholesterol is a vital component of cell membranes, specifically within the phospholipid bilayer. It helps maintain membrane fluidity and stability.

4. **Precursor to Other Molecules**:
- Cholesterol serves as a precursor for the synthesis of several important biomolecules, including steroid hormones (like testosterone and estrogen), vitamin D, and bile salts.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the information, cholesterol is best described as a derived lipid. While it is involved in the structure of phospholipid bilayers, it is not classified as a phospholipid itself.

### Final Answer:
Cholesterol is a derived lipid.

---