# Explain how the structure of a triglyceride makes it well suited for long-term energy storage in animals.

> IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus) — B1.1 Carbohydrates and lipids · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Triglycerides are non-polar / hydrophobic molecules, so they do not associate with water molecules
2. Triglycerides are composed of three fatty acid chains bonded to glycerol, giving a high ratio of C–H bonds to oxygen
3. The high proportion of C–H bonds means more energy is released per gram upon oxidation compared with carbohydrates
4. Being stored as a compact, water-free droplet means a large amount of energy can be stored without significantly increasing body mass / volume

## Key terms

- [triglyceride](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/triglyceride)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-structure-of-a-5f9c6989) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.