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Frequently Asked Question
Questions asked by users might not always be phrased in the clearest way.
What is the most effective way to split triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol? Can you work out an example for me?
Accepted Answer
The most effective way to split triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol is through hydrolysis, which involves breaking the ester bonds in the triglyceride molecule by adding water. This process is catalyzed by enzymes called lipases in biological systems.
Here's an example:
Triglyceride + 3 H2O → Glycerol + 3 Fatty Acids
This reaction is reversible, but it can be driven to completion by removing the products (glycerol and fatty acids) from the reaction mixture.
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