Which of the following are considered fats or lipids?

The correct choice identifies triglycerides and fatty acids as the components that are classified as fats or lipids.

Triglycerides are the most common type of fat found in the body and in food, composed of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol backbone. They are essential for storing energy, providing insulation, and forming cell membranes. Fatty acids, which are long chains of hydrocarbon molecules, can be saturated or unsaturated and play critical roles in various biological processes, including hormone production and cellular function.

In contrast, carbohydrates and proteins, sugars and amino acids, as well as vitamins and minerals, represent different macromolecules and micronutrients. Carbohydrates primarily serve as a quick energy source, proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues, and vitamins and minerals perform various roles in metabolism and physiological functions, but none of these categories includes fats or lipids. Therefore, the identification of triglycerides and fatty acids is key to understanding the specific classification of lipids.