The synthesis of both glycerophospholipids and triacylglycerols involves ______________.

The synthesis of both glycerophospholipids and triacylglycerols involves the esterification of glycerol.

Here are the steps:

1. Glycerol, a three-carbon alcohol, serves as the backbone for these molecules.

2. In the first step of synthesis, a fatty acid is esterified to glycerol, meaning the carboxyl group of the fatty acid reacts with one of the hydroxyl groups of glycerol to form an ester bond.

3. This process is repeated with a second fatty acid.

4. At this point, the molecule can proceed down two paths. If a third fatty acid is added, the result is a triacylglycerol, a neutral fat.

5. If instead a phosphate group is added, the result is a phosphatidic acid, a key intermediate in the synthesis of glycerophospholipids.

6. The phosphate group can then react with an alcohol to form the various types of glycerophospholipids.

So, the synthesis of both glycerophospholipids and triacylglycerols involves the esterification of glycerol.