Final answer:
Fats serve as an energy reserve and as insulation in animal bodies, helping to maintain a consistent body temperature and playing a part in cell membrane structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Uses of Fats in Animal Bodies
Fats perform crucial roles in the bodies of animals. One of the primary functions of fats is to act as a source of energy when food is not readily available, serving as an energy reserve. This is especially important for animals such as polar bears and seals, which rely on stored body fat for insulation and survival during times when food is scarce, such as Arctic winters.
Another important function of fat is to provide insulation to an animal's body, helping to maintain consistent body temperature against the cold. It is also worth noting that fats serve additional biological purposes by forming part of cell membranes and protecting internal organs through cushioning.