Chapter 14.4, Problem 3QQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The correct sequence for the four reactions of the $\beta -\text{oxidation}$ pathway in terms of the ‘functional group acted upon’ has to be identified.

Concept Introduction:

The $\beta -\text{oxidation}$ pathway is defined as a repetitive series of four biochemical reactions in which acyl CoA is degraded to acetyl CoA by the removal of two carbon atoms at a time. NADH and ${\text{FADH}}_2$ are also produced in this pathway.

Functional groups are defined as the group of atoms which are attached to the carbon backbone of organic compounds.  These are generally heteroatoms which are attached to the parent hydrocarbon chain. Some examples of functional groups are as follows:

Here, R and ${\text{R}}^{\text{'}}$ represent an alkyl group. In alkene, ${\text{R}}_1$, ${\text{R}}_2$, ${\text{R}}_3$ , and ${\text{R}}_4$ can be the same or different or can be hydrogen.

Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons that contain covalently bonded hydrogen and carbon atoms. In secondary alcohol, the carbon atom of the hydroxyl group $\left(\text{OH}\right)$ is bonded to alkyl groups on both sides.