A saturated fatty acid example is palmitic acid, with the chemical formula CH3(CH2)14COOH.
Understanding Saturated Fatty Acids
Saturated fatty acids (SFAs) are a type of fatty acid that contain only single bonds between carbon atoms. According to the provided reference, typical examples of SFAs include stearic, palmitic, myristic, lauric, caprylic, and butyric acid. Palmitic acid (C16:0) is highlighted as the most common saturated fatty acid.
Palmitic Acid: An Example
Here's a more detailed look at palmitic acid:
- Chemical Formula: CH3(CH2)14COOH
- Carbon Chain Length: 16 carbons
- Structure: A long chain of carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached, ending with a carboxylic acid group (-COOH)
Structure Description
The basic structure of a saturated fatty acid involves a chain of carbon atoms linked together by single bonds. Each carbon atom is bonded to hydrogen atoms, except for the terminal carbon, which is part of a carboxyl group (-COOH).
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Carbon Bonds | Single bonds only |
| Hydrogen Atoms | Attached to each carbon atom, maximizing hydrogen saturation |
| Terminal Group | Carboxyl group (-COOH) at one end |
| Chain Length | Varies; palmitic acid has 16 carbons (C16:0) |
Examples of Saturated Fatty Acids
Here are some other examples of SFAs mentioned in the reference:
- Stearic acid: Found in animal fats.
- Myristic acid: Common in nutmeg.
- Lauric acid: Found in coconut and palm kernel oils.
- Caprylic acid: A medium-chain fatty acid found in coconut oil.
- Butyric acid: Found in butter.
Summary
Saturated fatty acids are characterized by their single carbon bonds. Palmitic acid is a great example of an SFA with a 16-carbon chain. Its chemical structure and common occurrence make it a frequently studied molecule in biochemistry and nutrition.
