Question

How are triglycerides in canola oil converted to diesel fuel?

A) Oxidation
B) Hydrolysis
C) Transesterification
D) Isomerization

Answer 1

Triglycerides in canola oil are converted to diesel fuel through transesterification, reacting with methanol to form methyl esters, which make up biodiesel, and glycerol as a by-product.

Step-by-step explanation:

Triglycerides in canola oil are converted to diesel fuel through a process called transesterification. This chemical reaction involves a triglyceride reacting with an alcohol (usually methanol) to produce glycerol and methyl esters, which are the components of biodiesel. The reaction can be summarized as follows:

1. The triglyceride reacts with methanol in the presence of a catalyst.
2. Fatty acid chains of the triglyceride are converted into methyl esters.
3. Glycerol is produced as a by-product.

This process occurs under specific conditions of temperature and pressure, and requires a catalyst, commonly sodium or potassium hydroxide, to proceed efficiently.