Oleic Acid

Background information

Oleic Acid


Properties

This is a straight chained aliphatic organic compound.
At room temperature it is a clear colourless liquid
It has a melting point of 16.3ºC
Boiling point is 286ºC

The physical properties are determined by the geometry and the position of the double bond. The degree of unsaturation is also important.


Oleic acid is a mono-unsaturated fatty acid. It contains a chain consisting of 18 carbon atoms. As shown in the diagram it has a z double bond in between carbons 9 and 10.