Question

What is the number of moles of water molecules required for complete hydrolysis of \(n\) mole triglyceride?

• A. \(4n\)
• B. \(3n\)
• C. \(2n\)
• D. \(n\)

Hint:

In hydrolysis reactions, count the number of \textbf{ester bonds}. Each ester bond consumes \textbf{one molecule of water}. Triglycerides always have \textbf{three ester bonds} → water required = \(3n\).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A triglyceride is an ester formed from one molecule of glycerol and three molecules of fatty acids. Therefore, a single triglyceride molecule contains three ester linkages.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The hydrolysis of an ester requires one mole of water per mole of ester linkage. The general reaction is: \[ \text{Ester} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \longrightarrow \text{Alcohol} + \text{Carboxylic Acid} \] Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
To completely hydrolyze one molecule of a triglyceride, each of the three ester bonds must be cleaved. The cleavage of one ester bond requires one molecule of water.
Reaction for 1 mole:
\(\text{Triglyceride} + 3\text{H}_2\text{O} \longrightarrow \text{Glycerol} + 3\text{Fatty Acids}\)
Thus, $1$ mole of triglyceride requires $3$ moles of water for complete hydrolysis.
By extension, \(n\) moles of triglyceride will require \(3n\) moles of water.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The correct option is (B).