The Fatty Acid Molecule Mixing With Water

Identify the part of the fatty acid molecule that should mix with water and explain this phenomenon

  • The fatty acid molecule has a “water-loving” (hydrophilic) head, which is the carboxyl group, and a “water-fearing” (hydrophobic) tail.
  • The carboxyl group at the end of the molecule is highly polar, making it soluble in water.
  • The hydrocarbon chain is non-polar, meaning that it is insoluble in water.
  • As the length of the CH2 chain increases, the molecule becomes more hydrophobic and less soluble in water.