triglycerides

A triglyceride is formed by condensation of 3 fatty-acid molecules and a glycerol. They are important for energy reserve (the fatty acid molecules are broken down). There is also there is a great amount of energy in the carbon-carbon bonds in the fatty acid chains. Phospholipids are formed by only 2 fatty-acid molecules and a glycerol.. the other fatty acid is replaced by a phosphate group. Both are lipids and found widely in nature and have similar structure. Phospholipids are the molecules that make up the plasma membrane. This membrane is a protective barrier for the cells.