Hexadecanoic

/ˌhɛksədɛkəˈnoʊɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or designating a sixteen-carbon fatty acid, commonly known as palmitic acid, found in many oils and fats.

Etymology

From Greek 'hex-' (six) + 'deca-' (ten) + '-anoic' (carboxylic acid). This chemistry term became standard in the early 20th century as biochemists studied natural fats and oils.

Kelly Says

Hexadecanoic acid (palmitic acid) is one of the most abundant fatty acids in nature and makes up about 8-10% of human body fat—it even got its name because it was first discovered in palm oil.

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