Table of contents

1. Matter and Measurements4h 31m
2. Atoms and the Periodic Table5h 23m
3. Ionic Compounds2h 18m
4. Molecular Compounds2h 18m
5. Classification & Balancing of Chemical Reactions3h 17m
6. Chemical Reactions & Quantities2h 27m
7. Energy, Rate and Equilibrium3h 46m
8. Gases, Liquids and Solids3h 25m
9. Solutions4h 10m
10. Acids and Bases3h 29m
11. Nuclear Chemistry56m
BONUS: Lab Techniques and Procedures1h 38m
BONUS: Mathematical Operations and Functions47m
12. Introduction to Organic Chemistry1h 34m
13. Alkenes, Alkynes, and Aromatic Compounds2h 12m
14. Compounds with Oxygen or Sulfur1h 6m
15. Aldehydes and Ketones1h 1m
16. Carboxylic Acids and Their Derivatives1h 11m
17. Amines39m
18. Amino Acids and Proteins1h 51m
19. Enzymes1h 37m
20. Carbohydrates1h 41m
21. The Generation of Biochemical Energy2h 8m
22. Carbohydrate Metabolism2h 22m
23. Lipids2h 26m
24. Lipid Metabolism1h 45m
25. Protein and Amino Acid Metabolism1h 37m
26. Nucleic Acids and Protein Synthesis2h 54m

23. Lipids

Fatty Acids

GOB Chemistry

23. Lipids

Fatty Acids

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1:45 minutes

Problem 73a

Textbook Question

Identify each of the following as a saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, omega-3, or omega-6 fatty acid:
a.

Verified step by step guidance

Examine the structure of the fatty acid provided in the image. Look for the presence of double bonds in the carbon chain. A saturated fatty acid has no double bonds, while unsaturated fatty acids have one or more double bonds.

If the fatty acid has only one double bond, it is classified as monounsaturated. If it has two or more double bonds, it is classified as polyunsaturated.

For polyunsaturated fatty acids, determine the position of the first double bond relative to the omega (ω) end of the carbon chain. The omega end is the terminal methyl group (CH₃).

Count the number of carbons from the omega end to the first carbon involved in a double bond. If the first double bond is at the third carbon, it is an omega-3 fatty acid. If it is at the sixth carbon, it is an omega-6 fatty acid.

Based on the analysis of the structure, classify the fatty acid as saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, omega-3, or omega-6. Ensure you clearly identify the type based on the criteria above.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Saturated Fatty Acids

Saturated fatty acids are types of fats that have no double bonds between the carbon atoms in their hydrocarbon chain. This means they are 'saturated' with hydrogen atoms. They are typically solid at room temperature and are commonly found in animal fats, butter, and certain oils. High intake of saturated fats is often linked to increased cholesterol levels and heart disease.

Unsaturated Fatty Acids

Unsaturated fatty acids contain one or more double bonds in their hydrocarbon chain, which introduces kinks that prevent the molecules from packing tightly together. This category is divided into monounsaturated (one double bond) and polyunsaturated (multiple double bonds) fats. Unsaturated fats are generally liquid at room temperature and are found in plant oils, nuts, and fish, and are considered healthier options compared to saturated fats.

Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are types of polyunsaturated fats that are essential for human health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and benefits for heart health. Omega-6 fatty acids, found in vegetable oils and nuts, are also essential but can promote inflammation if consumed in excess relative to omega-3s. A balanced intake of both is crucial for maintaining overall health.

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Textbook Question

Dietary guidelines suggest we limit our intake of butter due to the cholesterol content and substitute oils or margarine. The following table shows the major fatty acid distribution for a typical stick of margarine and also for butter. Values are percentages.

a. Which contains more monounsaturated fatty acids?

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Textbook Question

c. Which is likely to contain fewer trans-fatty acids

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Textbook Question

Are the carbon–carbon double bonds in naturally occurring fatty acids primarily cis or trans?

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Textbook Question

What is the difference in the location of the first double bond in an omega-3 and an omega-6 fatty acid (see Chemistry Link to Health “Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Fish Oils”)?

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Textbook Question

Describe some similarities and differences in the structures of a saturated fatty acid and an unsaturated fatty acid.

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Textbook Question

Draw the line-angle formula for each of the following fatty acids:

a. palmitic acid

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Textbook 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

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Textbook 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. linoleic acid

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