Final answer:
A membrane fatty acid with no double bonds is known as a saturated fatty acid. These straight-chain fatty acids are solid or semi-solid at room temperature and can contribute to plaque formation in the arteries.
Step-by-step explanation:
A membrane fatty acid that lacks double bonds is considered saturated. Saturated fatty acids have no carbon-to-carbon double bonds and contain the maximum number of hydrogen atoms. They are characterized by their straight chains, which allow them to pack tightly together and be solid or semi-solid at room temperature. Foods like butter, lard, and the fat found on a steak contain saturated fatty acids.
In contrast, unsaturated fatty acids contain one (monounsaturated) or more (polyunsaturated) double bonds along the carbon chain. These double bonds introduce kinks in the fatty acid chains, preventing them from packing closely together and resulting in a liquid state at room temperature. Oils from plants, such as olive oil, are examples of unsaturated fats.
Saturated fats contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries whereas unsaturated fats can help to lower blood cholesterol levels.