Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
fatty-acid
Noun
/’fæti ˈæsɪd/
Definition
A fatty acid is a carboxylic acid with a hydrocarbon chain that is either saturated or unsaturated.
Examples
- Olive oil is known for its high content of beneficial fatty acids.
- When we consume fats, our body breaks them down into fatty acids for energy.
- Some fatty acids, such as omega-3, are important for heart health.
Meaning
Fatty acids are essential components of lipids in living organisms. They play a vital role in metabolism and are a major source of energy for the body. They can be classified based on the presence of double bonds in their hydrocarbon chain.
Synonyms
- Long-chain carboxylic acid
- Aliphatic acid
- Fatty compound
