Cholesterol belongs to which of the following groups?

Options

A. Steroids
B. Neutral fats
C. Waxes
D. Phospholipids

Explanation

To determine which group cholesterol belongs to, we can analyze the given options step by step:

1. **Understanding Cholesterol**: Cholesterol is a type of lipid that is crucial for various bodily functions. It is known for its role in cell membrane structure and as a precursor for steroid hormones.

2. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option 1: Steroids**: Steroids are a class of lipids characterized by a structure of four fused carbon rings. Cholesterol fits this description as it is indeed a steroid and is the most abundant one in the human body.
- **Option 2: Neutral Fats**: Neutral fats, or triglycerides, are formed from glycerol and fatty acids. Cholesterol does not fit this category as it does not consist of glycerol and fatty acids.
- **Option 3: Waxes**: Waxes are also a type of lipid but are esters of long-chain fatty acids and long-chain alcohols. Cholesterol does not belong to this group either.
- **Option 4: Phospholipids**: Phospholipids have a hydrophilic head and two hydrophobic tails, which is not the structure of cholesterol.

3. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, cholesterol is classified as a steroid because of its structure and function in the body.

Thus, the answer to the question "Cholesterol belongs to which of the following groups?" is **Steroids**.

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