pentadecanoic

Pentadecanoic refers to a saturated fatty acid with fifteen carbon atoms. Its chemical formula is C15H30O2. It is also known as pentadecylic acid. As a saturated fatty acid, it contains no carbon-carbon double bonds in its hydrocarbon chain. Pentadecanoic acid is a solid at room temperature due to its relatively long chain length and lack of unsaturation, which allows for more efficient packing of the molecules. It is a component of various fats and oils, although its presence in animal and vegetable fats is generally in smaller quantities compared to other fatty acids like palmitic or oleic acid. It can be found in milk fat and in some plant oils. Pentadecanoic acid has been studied for its potential roles in metabolism and health, with some research suggesting it may act as a biomarker for certain dietary patterns or metabolic states. It can be synthesized or isolated from natural sources.