Unlike triglycerides and phospholipids, waxes contain monohydroxy alcohols instead of glycerol (which has three hydroxyl groups). They are solids with low melting points, and are used as waterproof both in nature and commerically.
Steroids have a fused carbon ring structure. I hate drawing regular polygons, and I've tried drawing it and failed, so you don't get to see a diagram of a fused carbon ring structure.
Steroids are separated into four groups:
- cholesterol: It is found on the cell membrane, and according to the fluid mosaic model, it keeps the membrane moving (at least, something like that). However, too much of it is unhealthy>
- adrenocorticoid hormones (ADH): This hormone is found in the kidney and regulates water retention. If the animal has a higher salt-to-water ratio in their bloodsteam, the body conserves it. If it has a lower ratio, the water is thrown out of the body.
- sex hormones: Some include the testosterone which gives secondary male characteristics. There are various female hormones (as we've come to accept) that control the menstruation cycle and give secondary female characteristics.
- bile acids: Bile acids emulsify fats in the intestines (break them down so they are easier to digest). Bile acids can also dissolve cholesterol.
Lipids
- Fats
- Phospholipids
- Waxes and Steroids