Differences Between Fatty Acids

Saturated fatty acids do not have a double carbon bond

--> carbon atoms are completely saturated with hydrogen atoms in their structure

Unsaturated fatty acids can have one (monounsaturated) or several double carbon bonds

Most animal fats (except fish) contain saturated fatty acids

Many plant oils (olive oil) contain monounsaturated fatty acids

Avocados, vegetables oils, nuts or fish contain polyunsaturated fatty acids

The more double bonds the more kinks the hydrophobic tale has

--> affects the packing of the fatty acids and the number of hydrophobic interactions (weak chemical forces of attraction) can be formed between them

• The more saturated fatty acids, the higher the melting point

• More saturated fatty acids can pack more densely and therefore can form more bonding interactions between them

• More forces of interaction and more energy needed to break