Fatty Acids – Reactions Overview
- S-3-PHARMACEUTICAL-ORGANIC-CHEMISTRY
- Feb 28
- 2 min read
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Fatty acids, key components of lipids, undergo several important chemical reactions that have both biological significance and industrial applications.
Below is a summary of key reactions involving fatty acids.
1) Hydrolysis
Hydrolysis involves the breakdown of triglycerides (fats and oils) into glycerol and fatty acids through the addition of water.
Types
Acid/Enzyme-Catalyzed Hydrolysis: Produces free fatty acids and glycerol.
Base-Catalyzed Hydrolysis (Saponification): Produces glycerol and soap (the salt of a fatty acid).
Equation
Triglyceride + 3H2O → Glycerol + 3Soap (RCOO- M+) (base)
2) Hydrogenation of Fatty Acids
This reaction adds hydrogen to unsaturated fatty acids, converting double bonds into single bonds, effectively saturating the molecule.
Application
Used in the food industry to solidify oils, creating partially or fully hydrogenated fats (e.g., margarine).
Equation
Unsaturated Fatty Acid + H2 → Saturated Fatty Acid
(Catalyst: Usually Pd or Pt)
3)Saponification
A specific type of base-catalyzed hydrolysis where triglycerides react with a strong base (like NaOH) to produce glycerol and soap (a salt of a fatty acid).
Application
This reaction is fundamental in soap-making.
Equation
Triglyceride + 3NaOH → Glycerol + 3Soap (RCOO- Na+)
4) Rancidity of Oils
Rancidity is the spoilage of fats and oils due to oxidation or hydrolysis, leading to unpleasant flavors and odors.
Types
Oxidative Rancidity: Caused by the oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, producing aldehydes, ketones, and acids.
Hydrolytic Rancidity: Caused by the hydrolysis of triglycerides, releasing free fatty acids and glycerol.
Prevention
Antioxidants (like Vitamin E) are often added to oils to slow down oxidative rancidity.
5) Drying Oils
Drying oils are unsaturated oils that harden to a tough, solid film when exposed to air, due to polymerization (a form of oxidation).
Application
Commonly used in paints, varnishes, and coatings (e.g., linseed oil).
Mechanism
The unsaturated fatty acids in drying oils react with oxygen, leading to the formation of cross-linked polymers, which dry and harden into a solid film.
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