Q. 15.9 - 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. lauric acid

b. linolenic acid

c. palmitoleic acid

d. stearic acid

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Part (a) Lauric acid saturated 

Part  (b) polysaturated

Part  (c) monosaturated 

Part  (d) Saturated

Part (a) Step 1: Given information

The shorthand notation for the number of carbon atoms and double bonds is Lauric acid.

We have to find the saturation and ratio.

Part (a) Step 2: Explanation

Number of $C$ : double bond$=12:0$

0 double bond so saturated fatty acid

Part (b) Step 3: Given information

The shorthand notation for the number of carbon atoms and double bonds is linoleic acid.

We have to find the saturation and ratio.

Part (b) Step 4 : Explanation

Number of $C$ double bonds $=18: 3$

3 double bond, so polysaturated fatty acid

Part (c) Step 5 : Given information

The shorthand notation for the number of carbon atoms and double bonds is palmitoleic acid.

We have to find the saturation and ratio.

Part (c) Step 6: Explanation

Number of $C$ : double bond $=16: 1$

1 double bond, so monosaturated fatty acid

Part (d) Step 7 : Given information

The shorthand notation for the number of carbon atoms and double bonds is stearic acid.

We have to find the saturation and ratio.

Part (d) Step 8 : Explanation

Number of $C:$ double bond $=16: 0$

$D$double bond so saturated fatty acid