Question

The number of NADPH molecules required for the synthesis of palmitate (C16:0) from acetyl CoA is ..........

Hint:

Fatty acid synthesis requires 2 NADPH molecules per two-carbon unit added to the growing fatty acid chain.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 13.99

Step 1: Understand the fatty acid synthesis process.
The synthesis of palmitate (C16:0) from acetyl CoA occurs through the process of fatty acid synthesis, which involves the reduction of carbon-carbon bonds. For every two-carbon unit added, two NADPH molecules are required.

Step 2: Calculate the number of NADPH molecules required.
Palmitate (C16:0) is a 16-carbon fatty acid. To form palmitate, 8 two-carbon units are added. Each two-carbon unit requires 2 NADPH molecules for reduction, so the total number of NADPH molecules required is: \[ 8 \times 2 = 16 \, \text{NADPH}. \]

Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, 14 NADPH molecules are required for the synthesis of palmitate (C16:0) from acetyl CoA.