Fats are esters formed by the reaction between glycerol and fatty acids. The term "triglycerides" refers to fats formed from three fatty acid molecules.
Step 1: Definition of Fats.
Fats are a class of compounds formed by the esterification reaction between fatty acids and alcohols. The alcohol involved in the formation of fats is glycerol.
Step 2: Esterification Reaction.
The general reaction for the formation of fat is:
\[
\text{Fat} = \text{Glycerol} + \text{Fatty Acids}
\]
In this reaction, glycerol (\( \text{C}_3\text{H}_8\text{O}_3 \)) reacts with fatty acids, resulting in the formation of an ester (fat). The product is called a triglyceride when three fatty acids are involved.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Hence, fats are esters formed from glycerol and higher fatty acids.