The basic building blocks of lipids are known as fatty acids and glycerol. These molecules combine to form various types of lipids, including triglycerides, phospholipids, and sterols. Fatty acids can be saturated or unsaturated, influencing the physical properties of the lipid. Glycerol serves as a backbone to which fatty acids are attached, forming triglycerides that store energy in adipose tissues. Lipids play critical roles in cellular structure, energy storage, and signaling, making their building blocks essential for numerous biological functions.