TRIPALMITIN Meaning and
Definition
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Tripalmitin is a compound primarily classified as a triglyceride, which is a type of fat molecule. It is composed of three fatty acid chains known as palmitic acid, each bonded to a glycerol backbone. The result is a chemical structure in which the three palmitic acid molecules are esterified with the three hydroxyl groups of the glycerol molecule. This esterification occurs through the formation of ester bonds.
Tripalmitin is commonly found in natural fats and oils, particularly those derived from plants and animals. It plays a crucial role in energy storage, serving as a reservoir of fatty acids that can be broken down and utilized for energy when needed. Due to its high energy density, tripalmitin is predominantly found in adipose tissue, which serves as the body's primary energy reserve.
From a nutritional standpoint, tripalmitin provides a concentrated source of calories, yielding approximately 9 calories per gram. Its solid consistency at room temperature is one of the factors contributing to the characteristic texture and mouthfeel of fatty foods. This compound also serves as an emulsifier, helping to stabilize mixtures of oil and water, such as in certain foods and cosmetic products.
In conclusion, tripalmitin is a triglyceride composed of three palmitic acid molecules esterified with a glycerol backbone. It is a major constituent of natural fats and oils, serving as a source of stored energy and contributing to the sensory properties of fatty foods.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TRIPALMITIN
- rripalmitin
- fripalmitin
- gripalmitin
- yripalmitin
- 6ripalmitin
- 5ripalmitin
- teipalmitin
- tdipalmitin
- tfipalmitin
- ttipalmitin
- t5ipalmitin
- t4ipalmitin
- trupalmitin
- trjpalmitin
- trkpalmitin
- tropalmitin
- tr9palmitin
- tr8palmitin
- trioalmitin
Etymology of TRIPALMITIN
The word "tripalmitin" is derived from the combination of two components: "tri-" which refers to the presence of three, and "palmitin" which refers to palmitic acid.
"Tri-" comes from the Greek word "treis" (τρεῖς) meaning "three". It is commonly used as a prefix in scientific terminology to indicate a group of three or a tripartite structure.
"Palmitin" refers to the ester of palmitic acid. Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid commonly found in vegetable and animal fats. The term "palmitic" originates from "palm oil", as it was first identified in palm oil.
Therefore, "tripalmitin" refers to a molecule consisting of three fatty acid chains of palmitic acid esterified with glycerol.
Similar spelling words for TRIPALMITIN
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