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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best distinguishes saturated fats from unsaturated fats?
A
Saturated fats contain phosphate groups, while unsaturated fats do not.
B
Saturated fats contain only single bonds between carbon atoms, while unsaturated fats contain one or more double bonds.
C
Saturated fats are always liquid at room temperature, while unsaturated fats are always solid.
D
Saturated fats have fewer hydrogen atoms than unsaturated fats.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the structural difference between saturated and unsaturated fats. Saturated fats have carbon atoms connected by single bonds only, while unsaturated fats have one or more double bonds between carbon atoms in their hydrocarbon chains.
Step 2: Analyze the implications of these structural differences. Single bonds in saturated fats allow the hydrocarbon chains to pack closely together, making them solid at room temperature. Double bonds in unsaturated fats create kinks in the chain, preventing tight packing and making them liquid at room temperature.
Step 3: Evaluate the statement about phosphate groups. Phosphate groups are not relevant to the distinction between saturated and unsaturated fats, as they are not part of the hydrocarbon chains in these molecules.
Step 4: Consider the hydrogen atom count. Saturated fats are 'saturated' with hydrogen atoms because all carbon atoms are bonded to the maximum number of hydrogens. Unsaturated fats have fewer hydrogen atoms due to the presence of double bonds.
Step 5: Identify the correct answer based on the structural and chemical properties discussed. The correct distinction is that saturated fats contain only single bonds between carbon atoms, while unsaturated fats contain one or more double bonds.