Skip to main content
Pearson+ LogoPearson+ Logo

Triacylglycerol Reactions: Hydrolysis quiz Flashcards

Triacylglycerol Reactions: Hydrolysis quiz
Control buttons has been changed to "navigation" mode.
1/10
  • Which of the following statements are true regarding triglycerides?
    Triglycerides can undergo hydrolysis to produce glycerol and fatty acids or carboxylate anions, depending on whether the reaction is acid-catalyzed or base-catalyzed.
  • What is saponification in the context of triglycerides?
    Saponification is the base-catalyzed hydrolysis of triglycerides, resulting in glycerol and carboxylate anions, which are salts of fatty acids.
  • What are the products of acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of triglycerides?
    Acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of triglycerides produces glycerol and three fatty acids.
  • What role does sodium hydroxide play in saponification?
    Sodium hydroxide acts as a base in saponification, leading to the formation of solid soap from triglycerides.
  • How does the mechanism of base-catalyzed hydrolysis proceed?
    The mechanism involves nucleophilic attack by hydroxide ion, loss of the leaving group, and proton transfer, forming carboxylate anions.
  • What is the difference between solid and liquid soap production in saponification?
    Solid soap is produced using sodium hydroxide, while liquid soap is produced using potassium hydroxide.
  • What is the role of hydronium ion in acid-catalyzed hydrolysis?
    Hydronium ion protonates the carbonyl oxygen, facilitating nucleophilic attack and subsequent hydrolysis of ester bonds.
  • What is the significance of the NAS mechanism in triglyceride hydrolysis?
    NAS, or Nucleophilic Acyl Substitution, is the mechanism followed in both acid and base-catalyzed hydrolysis of triglycerides.
  • What are the steps involved in acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of triglycerides?
    The steps include proton transfer, nucleophilic attack, loss of leaving group, and deprotonation, resulting in carboxylic acids.
  • How does enzymatic hydrolysis of triglycerides differ from acid-catalyzed hydrolysis?
    Enzymatic hydrolysis uses the enzyme lipase under milder conditions to produce glycerol and fatty acids, similar to acid-catalyzed hydrolysis.