Question

Linoleic acid is called an _________ because of the position of the first C=C in the nonpolar chain.

a) Saturated fatty acid

b) Unsaturated fatty acid

c) Trans fat

d) Ester

Answer 1

Linoleic acid is an unsaturated fatty acid due to the position of the first C=C bond in the nonpolar chain. This double bond creates a kink in the chain, making the fatty acid liquid at room temperature.

Step-by-step explanation:

Linoleic acid is called an unsaturated fatty acid because of the position of the first C=C in the nonpolar chain. Unlike a saturated fatty acid that has all single bonds between carbon atoms, linoleic acid has double bonds between certain carbon atoms. This double bond causes a kink in the chain, preventing the fatty acid molecules from packing together tightly and making them liquid at room temperature.