Chapter 4, Problem 4.81CP

Summary Introduction

To draw:

The skeletal structures of the fatty acids EPA and DHA.

Introduction:

Skeletal structure shows the bonds between the carbon atoms in the form of lines in two dimensions. The bonds between two carbon atoms are indicated by lines. The number of $\text{C}-\text{H}$ bonds to any carbon atoms is equal to four minus the bonds formed by the carbon.

Fatty acids are the long chain hydrocarbons and a carboxylic acid group is attached at the end of the chain. EPA is a Eicosapentaenoic acid that is found in fish oils. It consists of $20$ carbons and has five double bonds. So, it is a polyunsaturated fatty acid as there are multiple double bonds present in it.

DHA is a Docosahexaenoic acid that is also found in fish oils. It consists of $22$ carbons and has six double bonds. So, it is a polyunsaturated fatty acid as there are multiple double bonds present in it.