Monounsaturated fatty acids are characterized by a single double bond in their hydrocarbon chain. According to the provided reference, the general chemical formula for normal monounsaturated fatty acids is CH3(CH2)nCH=CH(CH2)mCOOH.
Here's a breakdown:
- CH3: This represents the methyl group at one end of the fatty acid.
- (CH2)n: This indicates a chain of n methylene groups (CH2).
- CH=CH: This is the single double bond that defines a monounsaturated fatty acid. This is the key feature distinguishing it from saturated (no double bonds) and polyunsaturated (multiple double bonds) fatty acids. In nature, this double bond is usually in the cis configuration.
- (CH2)m: Another chain of m methylene groups (CH2).
- COOH: This represents the carboxyl group at the other end of the fatty acid, making it an acid.
In summary, monounsaturated fatty acids possess a long hydrocarbon chain with one double bond, typically in the cis configuration, and a carboxyl group at one end.
