Q. 15.11 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

How does the structure of a fatty acid with a cis double bond differ from the structure of a fatty acid with a trans double bond?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

In a cis fatty acid, the hydrogen atoms are on the same side of the double bond, which produces a kink in the carbon chain. In a trans fatty acid, the hydrogen atoms are on opposite sides of the double bond, which gives a carbon chain without any link.

Step 1: Given Information

The structure of a fatty acid with a cis double bond differ from the structure of a fatty acid with a trans double bond.

Step 2: An Information

Fatty acids are a component of the fat in our bodies and  the foods we eat. During digestion, the body breaks down fat into fatty acids, which can  be absorbed by the blood. Fatty acid molecules are usually combined in three groups to form a molecule called  triglyceride.

Step 3: Explanation

In a cis fatty acid, the hydrogen atoms are on the same side of the double bond, which produces a link in the carbon chain. In a trans fatty acid, the hydrogen atoms are on opposite sides of the double bond, which gives a carbon chain without any kink.