The general formula for saturated fatty acids is CH3(CH2)nCOOH, where 'n' is typically an ______ number.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the general formula for saturated fatty acids, CH3(CH2)nCOOH, and specifically what type of number 'n' typically is (even or odd). This delves into the structure and properties of these organic molecules.
Answer
The general formula for saturated fatty acids is CH3(CH2)nCOOH, where 'n' is typically an even number.
The general formula for saturated fatty acids is CH3(CH2)nCOOH, where 'n' is typically an even number.
Answer for screen readers
The general formula for saturated fatty acids is CH3(CH2)nCOOH, where 'n' is typically an even number.
More Information
The 'n' in the formula CH3(CH2)nCOOH represents the number of repeating methylene (CH2) units in the fatty acid tail. Because fatty acids are synthesized by adding two-carbon units at a time, 'n' is almost always an even number.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming 'n' can be odd, but the biochemical synthesis of fatty acids ensures it's almost always even.
Sources
- Lipids | CK-12 Foundation - flexbooks.ck12.org
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