Tag: Octadecanoic acid

With the chemical formula C18H36O2, stearic acid is a naturally occurring, long-chain saturated fatty acid found in many animal and vegetable fats. This waxy, solid substance is an essential component of lipids and plays a significant role in various industries. This article will delve into the classification and function of stearic acid, distinguishing it from other fats and clarifying its common applications.

Yes, its chemical name, octadecanoic acid, directly confirms that stearic acid has 18 carbons. This long-chain saturated fatty acid is a fundamental building block in the fats and oils found in both animals and plants, with a structure that dictates its solid state at room temperature.

According to chemical classifications, octadecanoic acid is indeed a saturated fatty acid. This is determined by its molecular structure, which is defined by the absence of carbon-carbon double bonds in its long hydrocarbon chain. This article delves into the chemical details that confirm this classification, clarifying why this specific type of fatty acid is found in many animal and vegetable fats.

According to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), the systematic name for stearic acid is octadecanoic acid. This long-chain saturated fatty acid is naturally found in both animal and vegetable fats and oils, and its salts and esters are called stearates.

Stearic acid, an 18-carbon saturated fatty acid, is a major component of cocoa butter and shea butter. This versatile compound's specific chemical category determines its functions and diverse applications, from thickening creams to hardening soap bars.