Saturated fatty acid

Definition

A saturated fatty acid is a type of fatty acid with no double bonds between the carbon atoms of its hydrocarbon chain. It is typically solid at room temperature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Saturated fatty acids are found in animal fats and some plant oils.
2. They have straight chains, allowing them to pack closely together.
3. In microbial membranes, they affect membrane fluidity and permeability.
4. Saturated fatty acids are less likely to undergo oxidation compared to unsaturated fatty acids.
5. Common examples include stearic acid and palmitic acid.

Review Questions

• What structural characteristic defines a saturated fatty acid?
• How do saturated fatty acids influence membrane fluidity in microbes?
• Name two common examples of saturated fatty acids.

Related terms

Unsaturated Fatty Acid: A type of fatty acid that contains one or more double bonds in its hydrocarbon chain.

Triglyceride: A lipid molecule made up of one glycerol and three fatty acids.

Phospholipid: A major component of cell membranes, consisting of two fatty acids, a phosphate group, and a glycerol backbone.