Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the difference between a saturated and an unsaturated lipid?
A
Saturated lipids contain only single bonds between carbon atoms, while unsaturated lipids contain one or more double bonds.
B
Unsaturated lipids do not contain any carbon atoms.
C
Saturated lipids are liquid at room temperature, while unsaturated lipids are solid.
D
Saturated lipids have fewer hydrogen atoms than unsaturated lipids.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the structural difference between saturated and unsaturated lipids. Saturated lipids contain only single bonds between carbon atoms in their fatty acid chains, while unsaturated lipids contain one or more double bonds in their fatty acid chains.
Step 2: Analyze the implications of double bonds in unsaturated lipids. Double bonds introduce kinks in the fatty acid chains, preventing tight packing and often resulting in a liquid state at room temperature. Saturated lipids, with straight chains, can pack tightly and are typically solid at room temperature.
Step 3: Evaluate the statement 'Unsaturated lipids do not contain any carbon atoms.' This is incorrect because both saturated and unsaturated lipids are composed of carbon atoms in their fatty acid chains.
Step 4: Assess the statement 'Saturated lipids have fewer hydrogen atoms than unsaturated lipids.' This is incorrect because saturated lipids are fully saturated with hydrogen atoms, while unsaturated lipids have fewer hydrogen atoms due to the presence of double bonds.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct description is: 'Saturated lipids contain only single bonds between carbon atoms, while unsaturated lipids contain one or more double bonds.' This accurately reflects the structural and chemical differences between the two types of lipids.