A condensation reaction between glycerol and a fatty acid (RCOOH) forms an ester bond
When glycerol and a fatty acid join together, they release a water molecule. This reaction creates a new chemical link called an ester bond.
Formula
R–COOH + HO–Glycerol → R–COO–Glycerol + H₂O
Real World
Industrial biodiesel production (used in vehicles like those run by BP's fleet) exploits the same ester bond chemistry — triglycerides from plant oils are transesterified to release usable fuel.
Exam Focus
Name the bond as an 'ester bond' — writing 'glycosidic bond' or 'peptide bond' is a common error that loses the mark.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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