Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct statement that describes the relationship between the structure and function of the triacylglycerol molecule is:
C. It has hydrophobic (non-polar) bonds and hydrophobic hydrocarbon chains that allow it to store energy in a stable chemical compound.
Here's an explanation to support this answer:
1. Structure of Triacylglycerol: Triacylglycerol, also known as triglyceride, is composed of a glycerol molecule and three fatty acid chains. The fatty acid chains are long hydrocarbon chains that are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water.
2. Hydrophobic Bonds and Chains: Triacylglycerol is primarily composed of hydrophobic bonds and hydrophobic hydrocarbon chains. This hydrophobic nature means that triacylglycerol is insoluble in water but soluble in non-polar solvents like lipids.
3. Function of Triacylglycerol: The main function of triacylglycerol is energy storage in organisms. Due to the hydrophobic nature of the molecule, it is an efficient way to store chemical energy in a stable form. When needed, the stored triacylglycerol can be broken down through hydrolysis to release energy for cellular processes.
4. Comparison with Other Options: Option A mentions a phospholipid bilayer, which is not a characteristic of triacylglycerol. Option B refers to immediate-energy compounds, but triacylglycerol is not considered an immediate energy source. Option D mentions steroids and membrane fluidity, which are not directly related to the function of triacylglycerol.
In summary, the structure of the triacylglycerol molecule, with its hydrophobic bonds and hydrophobic hydrocarbon chains, allows it to store energy in a stable chemical compound. This characteristic makes triacylglycerol an essential molecule for energy storage in organisms