Nutritionally, saturated triacylglycerols are considered to be less healthful than unsaturated triacylglycerols. What is the difference between them?

• A. Saturated triacylglycerols are fats; unsaturated triacylglycerols are carbohydrates.
• B. Saturated triacylglycerols have more double bonds than unsaturated triacylglycerols do.
• C. Saturated triacylglycerols are liquid at room temperature.
• D. All of the listed responses are correct.
• E. For carbon skeletons of equal length, saturated triacylglycerols have more hydrogen atoms than unsaturated triacylglycerols do.

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic structure of triacylglycerols: They are composed of a glycerol backbone attached to three fatty acid chains.
2. Differentiate between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids: Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds between carbon atoms, meaning they are 'saturated' with hydrogen atoms. Unsaturated fatty acids contain one or more double bonds, which reduce the number of hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon skeleton.
3. Analyze the physical state at room temperature: Saturated fats are typically solid at room temperature due to their straight chains that pack closely together. Unsaturated fats, with kinks in their chains due to double bonds, are usually liquid.
4. Evaluate the nutritional aspect: Saturated fats are often considered less healthful because they can contribute to higher cholesterol levels, whereas unsaturated fats are generally seen as more beneficial for heart health.
5. Conclude with the correct statement: For carbon skeletons of equal length, saturated triacylglycerols have more hydrogen atoms than unsaturated triacylglycerols do, due to the absence of double bonds in saturated fats.