ERUCIC ACIDS Meaning and
Definition
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Erucic acids refer to a group of long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids with a 22-carbon backbone, specifically characterized by a double bond at the position ninth from the omega (ω) end. The term "erucic" is derived from the scientific name of the plant genus Brassica, which includes mustard plants, where this acid was first identified. It is primarily found in the seeds and oils of certain plants, such as rapeseed, mustard seed, and wallflower.
Erucic acids have gained significant attention due to their potential impact on human health. While some animal studies have suggested that high dietary intake of erucic acids may have adverse effects on heart health, these findings are not universally accepted. The consumption of erucic acids in moderate amounts from natural food sources is generally considered safe.
From an industrial perspective, erucic acids find application in various sectors. They are commonly used in the manufacturing of lubricants and additives for engines and machinery due to their favorable properties, such as high viscosity, good thermal stability, and low volatility. They also have potential use in the production of biofuels and as raw materials for chemical synthesis.
In conclusion, erucic acids are long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids found in certain plants, primarily in the seeds and oils. They have been studied for their potential effects on human health and find applications in various industrial sectors.
Common Misspellings for ERUCIC ACIDS
- wrucic acids
- srucic acids
- drucic acids
- rrucic acids
- 4rucic acids
- 3rucic acids
- eeucic acids
- educic acids
- efucic acids
- etucic acids
- e5ucic acids
- e4ucic acids
- erycic acids
- erhcic acids
- erjcic acids
- ericic acids
- er8cic acids
- er7cic acids
- eruxic acids
- eruvic acids
Etymology of ERUCIC ACIDS
The word "erucic" comes from the Latin scientific name for the rapeseed plant, Brassica eruca, which belongs to the Brassicaceae family. The term "eruca" is derived from the Latin word "eruca", meaning "caterpillar", which refers to the hairy appearance of the plants belonging to this genus.
The word "acid" is derived from the Latin term "acidus", which means "sour". However, in the context of "erucic acids", it refers to a group of naturally occurring organic compounds characterized by their carboxylic acid functional group.
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