Esters and fats: the big idea
Esters contain the linkage R–C(=O)–O–R′. They form when a carboxylic acid and an alcohol react with loss of water. Fats and oils are mainly triesters of glycerol and three fatty acids, so their properties follow from both ester groups and hydrocarbon chains.
Learning goals
- recognize and name simple esters;
- write esterification and hydrolysis equations;
- describe triglyceride structure;
- relate saturation to chain shape and physical properties;
- explain saponification.