Fats and Oils Flashcards
Describe the difference between fats and oils
Fats are solid at room temperature (butter), while oils are liquid at room temperature (olive oil). Both are composed of glycerol and fatty acids with similar chemical compositions but different physical properties and uses.
Recall the basic components of a triglyceride
Triglycerides are composed of three basic components: Glycerol: A type of alcohol with three carbon atoms. Fatty Acids: Long hydrocarbon chains that vary in length and saturation. Ester Bonds: Chemical bonds that connect the glycerol molecule to the fatty acids.
Recall the name and structure of an ester linkage
An ester linkage is a covalent bond between a carboxyl group of a fatty acid and a hydroxyl group of glycerol in a triglyceride molecule. Its structure involves a carbonyl group (C=O) from the carboxyl group and an oxygen atom bonded to the carbon in the hydroxyl group.
Circle the three hydroxyl groups on a molecule of glycerol
In a molecule of glycerol, the three hydroxyl groups are attached to the carbon atoms. Here are the hydroxyl groups circled on a diagram of a glycerol molecule: Circle the hydroxyl group attached to the first carbon atom. Circle the hydroxyl group attached to the second carbon atom. Circle the hydroxyl group attached to the third carbon atom.
Describe the difference between saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids
Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds, are solid at room temperature, found in animal products and some plant oils. Monounsaturated fatty acids have one double bond, are liquid at room temperature, found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts. Polyunsaturated fatty acids have two or more double bonds, are liquid at room temperature, found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and various vegetable oils. Omega-3 and omega-6 are essential types of polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Identify omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Benefits heart health and brain function. Omega-6 fatty acids: Found in vegetable oils like corn and soybean oil. Important for growth and skin health, but too much can lead to inflammation.
Circle the carboxyl group on a fatty acid
In a fatty acid molecule, the carboxyl group is at one end of the chain. You can circle the carboxyl group at the end of the fatty acid chain, as it is the functional group that gives fatty acids their acidic properties.
Identify a trans fatty acid
A trans fatty acid is a type of unsaturated fatty acid that has at least one double bond in a trans configuration. Trans fats are often found in processed foods containing hydrogenated oils and are considered unhealthy for consumption as they can increase the risk of heart disease.
Identify the healthiest and unhealthiest types of fatty acids
Healthiest types of fatty acids: Monounsaturated fats (MUFAs): Considered healthier than saturated fats, MUFAs can be found in foods like avocados, olives, nuts, and seeds. Polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs): These fats include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are known as the “good fats” for heart health. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish like salmon and walnuts. Unhealthiest types of fatty acids: Saturated fats: Identified as potentially harmful to health, saturated fats are found in foods like red meat, butter, and cheese. Trans fats: These fats are considered unhealthy and are often found in processed foods containing hydrogenated oils. Consuming trans fats can increase the risk of heart disease.
Glycerol formula is
C3H8O3
What is an ester linkage?
An ester linkage is a type of covalent bond that connects a carboxylic acid and an alcohol molecule. It’s formed through a dehydration reaction, where a molecule of water is removed.
What are triglycerides?
Triglycerides are the molecules found in fats and oils. They are esters and are composed of three fatty acid units linked to glycerol.
