Chapter 23, Problem 14RQ

To determine

The two classes of vitamins.

Answer to Problem 14RQ

The two broad classifications of vitamins are the water soluble vitamins and lipid soluble vitamins.

Explanation of Solution

There are many complex organic molecules. Vitamins are also a kind of complex organic molecules. These have been broadly classified into the two categories.

The first category is the water soluble vitamins. These include vitamin B-complex and vitamin C. The water soluble vitamins must be supplied regularly in diet because they are regularly excreted in urine and cannot be stored except vitamin ${\text{B}}_{12}$ in our body.

The second category is the lipid soluble vitamins. These are oily substances which are not readily soluble in water. However, they are soluble in fat or lipid. These includes vitamin A, D, E and K. They are stored in liver and adipose that are fat storing tissues. The excess intake of these vitamins is harmful and lead to cause hypervitaminoses.

Conclusion:

The two broad classifications of vitamins are the water soluble vitamins and lipid soluble vitamins. The former can be taken on regular basis whereas the latter may cause harmful effects when taken regularly in diet.