Question

Does trans-oleic acid have a higher or lower melting point than cis-oleic acid? Explain.

Short answer

Trans-oleic acid has a higher melting point than cis-oleic acid.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of oleic acid

Oleic acid is a fatty acid that has no color or flavor. It can be found in many animal and vegetable fats and oils in their natural state. Oleic acid is employed in a variety of foods in itstriglyceride form. Oleic acid may be found in animal fats and vegetable oils, making it suitable for inclusion in a typical human diet.

Trans-oleic has a high melting point

In comparison to cis isomers, trans isomers have a greater melting point. It's mostly due to trans isomers' lower stearic impediment. The melting point of trans-oleic acids is , while the melting point of cis-oleic acids is .

Because it has less stearic impediment, the trans isomer of oleic acid may pack together more easily. On the other hand, the cis isomer is more difficult to pack together due to its increased steric hindrance. The trans isomer has a more planar form than the cis isomer, with a "U" shape. In trans isomers, this allows for better packing. Trans-oleic acid has a greater melting point than cis-oleic acid for all of these reasons.

Conclusion

Therefore, in contrast with the cis and trans isomers, the trans-oleic acid has a higher melting pointthan the cis-oleic acid.