Which type of fatty acid has multiple double bonds?

• A. Stearic acid
• B. Oleic acid
• C. Linoleic acid
• D. Both linoleic and linolenic acids

Answer: (D)

The type of fatty acid characterized by multiple double bonds is known as a polyunsaturated fatty acid. Linoleic acid and linolenic acid both fall under this category because they contain more than one double bond in their carbon chain.

Linoleic acid, for instance, has two double bonds, while linolenic acid contains three double bonds. Both of these fatty acids are essential, meaning they must be obtained from the diet as the body cannot synthesize them.

In contrast, stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid, which means it contains no double bonds. Oleic acid, while it is unsaturated, only contains a single double bond, categorizing it as a monounsaturated fatty acid. Therefore, the correct choice highlights that both linoleic and linolenic acids possess the characteristic of having multiple double bonds in their structures.