Question

What is the number of moles of water molecules required for complete hydrolysis of \(n\) mole triglyceride?

• A. \(4n\)
• B. \(3n\)
• C. \(2n\)
• D. \(n\)

Hint:

In hydrolysis reactions, count the number of \textbf{ester bonds}. Each ester bond consumes \textbf{one molecule of water}. Triglycerides always have \textbf{three ester bonds} → water required = \(3n\).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept:
A triglyceride (triacylglycerol) is formed by the esterification of one glycerol molecule with three fatty acid molecules. It contains three ester bonds. Hydrolysis of each ester bond requires one molecule of water. Step 1: Understand the structure of triglyceride. A triglyceride has:

• 1 glycerol backbone
• 3 fatty acid chains
• 3 ester linkages

Step 2: Hydrolysis requirement. Each ester bond breaks with: \[ 1 \text{ molecule of } \text{H}_2\text{O} \] So, for one triglyceride: \[ \text{Water required} = 3 \text{ moles} \]
Step 3: For \(n\) moles of triglyceride. \[ \text{Water required} = 3n \]
Step 4: Conclusion. Hence, the number of moles of water required is: \[ 3n \]