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Multiple Choice
Which of the following options correctly describes the difference between fats and oils?
A
Fats are typically derived from plants, while oils are derived from animals.
B
Fats have a higher iodine number compared to oils.
C
Fats are solid at room temperature, while oils are liquid.
D
Fats are composed of unsaturated fatty acids, while oils are composed of saturated fatty acids.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic definitions: Fats and oils are both types of lipids, which are organic compounds that are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.
Identify the physical state at room temperature: Fats are typically solid at room temperature, whereas oils are liquid. This is a key distinguishing factor between the two.
Consider the source: Fats are often derived from animal sources, while oils are usually obtained from plant sources. However, this is not a strict rule as there are exceptions.
Examine the chemical composition: Fats are generally composed of saturated fatty acids, which have no double bonds between carbon atoms, leading to a more solid structure. Oils, on the other hand, are composed of unsaturated fatty acids, which contain one or more double bonds, resulting in a liquid state at room temperature.
Evaluate the iodine number: The iodine number is a measure of the degree of unsaturation in fatty acids. Oils typically have a higher iodine number than fats, indicating a greater number of double bonds.