Q1: The basic constituent of vegetable oils is

ANS:B - fatty acids

Fatty acids are organic molecules that consist of a long hydrocarbon chain with a carboxylic acid functional group (COOH) at one end. Here's an explanation of fatty acids:

1. Structure:
   • Hydrocarbon Chain: Fatty acids have a long hydrocarbon chain, which is typically composed of a linear arrangement of carbon atoms bonded to each other and to hydrogen atoms. The length of the hydrocarbon chain can vary, ranging from 4 to 24 carbon atoms or more.
   • Carboxylic Acid Group: At one end of the hydrocarbon chain, fatty acids contain a carboxylic acid group (COOH), which consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and single-bonded to a hydroxyl group (-OH). This carboxylic acid group is responsible for the acidic properties of fatty acids.
2. Classification:
   • Saturated Fatty Acids: In saturated fatty acids, all the carbon-carbon bonds in the hydrocarbon chain are single bonds, and the chain is saturated with hydrogen atoms. Examples include palmitic acid and stearic acid.
   • Unsaturated Fatty Acids: In unsaturated fatty acids, one or more carbon-carbon double bonds are present in the hydrocarbon chain, resulting in fewer hydrogen atoms and causing the chain to be unsaturated. Unsaturated fatty acids can be further classified into monounsaturated (containing one double bond) and polyunsaturated (containing multiple double bonds) fatty acids. Examples include oleic acid (monounsaturated) and linoleic acid (polyunsaturated).
3. Sources:
   • Dietary Sources: Fatty acids are commonly found in dietary fats and oils, such as those derived from animal fats (e.g., butter, lard) and plant oils (e.g., olive oil, soybean oil).
   • Biological Sources: Fatty acids are also synthesized and utilized by living organisms as essential components of cell membranes, energy storage molecules, and precursors for various metabolic processes.
4. Biological Functions:
   • Energy Storage: Fatty acids serve as a major source of energy for cells and tissues. When metabolized, fatty acids undergo beta-oxidation in the mitochondria to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of cells.
   • Structural Components: Fatty acids are important structural components of phospholipids, which are major constituents of cell membranes. They contribute to the fluidity and integrity of cell membranes.
   • Signaling Molecules: Certain fatty acids, such as eicosanoids derived from omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, act as signaling molecules that regulate various physiological processes, including inflammation, blood clotting, and immune response.