Q. 15.10 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

For each of the following fatty acids, give the shorthand notation for the number of carbon atoms and double bonds, and classify as saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated:

a. linoleic acid

b. palmitic acid

c. myristic acid

d. oleic acid

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Part (a) polysaturated

Part  (b) monosaturated 

Part  (c) Saturated

Part  (d) monosaturated

Part (a) Step 1: Given Information

The number of carbon atoms and double bonds in linoleic acid  and we have to classify as saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated.

Part (a) Step 2: Explanation

Number of C : double bond$=18: 2$

$2$double bond so polysaturated fatty acid

Part (b) Step 3: Given Information

The number of carbon atoms and double bonds in  palmitic acid   and we have to classify as saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated.

Part (b) Step 4: Explanation

Number of$C:$ double bond $=16: 1$

1 double bond so monosaturated fatty acid

Part (c) Step 5: Given Information

The number of carbon atoms and double bonds in  myristic acid   and we have to classify as saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated.

Part (c) Step 6: Explanation

Number of$C$ : double bond $=14: 0$

0 double bond so saturated fatty acid

Part (d) Step 7: Given Information

The number of carbon atoms and double bonds in  oleic  acid   and we have to classify as saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated.

Part (d) Step 8: Explanation

Number of$C:$ double bond $=18: 1$

1 double bond so monosaturated fatty acid