[Campbell Biology P.122] According to Figure 5.9 and its description, what are the direct pr... | Practice Question

According to Figure 5.9 and its description, what are the direct products formed during the synthesis of a triacylglycerol from glycerol and three fatty acids?

  • A: One triacylglycerol molecule and one water molecule.
  • B: One triacylglycerol molecule and three water molecules.
  • C: Three triacylglycerol molecules and three water molecules.
  • D: One glycerol molecule, three fatty acid molecules, and one water molecule.

Explanation

Figure 5.9a shows that one water molecule is removed for each fatty acid joined to glycerol. Since a triacylglycerol consists of one glycerol and three fatty acids, a total of three water molecules are removed during its synthesis. Thus, the products are one triacylglycerol molecule and three water molecules.