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Multiple Choice
A monounsaturated fatty acid contains one of which functional group?
A
Hydroxyl group (–OH)
B
Carboxyl group (–COOH)
C
Amino group (–NH_2)
D
Double bond (C=C)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'monounsaturated fatty acid.' These are fatty acids that contain one double bond (C=C) in their hydrocarbon chain, distinguishing them from saturated fatty acids (no double bonds) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (multiple double bonds).
Step 2: Review the structure of fatty acids. Fatty acids consist of a long hydrocarbon chain and a terminal carboxyl group (–COOH). The carboxyl group is common to all fatty acids, regardless of saturation level.
Step 3: Examine the functional groups listed in the problem: Hydroxyl group (–OH), Carboxyl group (–COOH), Amino group (–NH₂), and Double bond (C=C). Note that the defining feature of a monounsaturated fatty acid is the presence of a single double bond (C=C) in the hydrocarbon chain.
Step 4: Understand why the other functional groups are not correct answers. The hydroxyl group (–OH) is typically found in alcohols, not fatty acids. The amino group (–NH₂) is characteristic of amino acids, not fatty acids. While the carboxyl group (–COOH) is present in all fatty acids, it does not define the 'monounsaturated' property.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the double bond (C=C), as it is the defining characteristic of monounsaturated fatty acids, differentiating them from other types of fatty acids.