Final answer:
Phospholipids, glycolipids, sphingolipids, and cholesterol are the lipids that form the major components of biological membranes, contributing to the structural and functional integrity of the cell.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lipids used as a major component of biological membranes include phospholipids, glycolipids, sphingolipids, and cholesterol. These lipids are crucial in forming the lipid bilayer that constitutes the foundational structure of cell membranes.
Phospholipids are particularly significant, composed of a glycerol or sphingosine backbone with two fatty acid chains and a phosphate-containing group, which allow for a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail. This dual nature facilitates the formation of the membrane's bilayer, providing a barrier that separates the intracellular and extracellular environments. Cholesterol, another type of lipid, is embedded within the phospholipid bilayer, adding fluidity and stability to the membrane.