Answer to Question #146418 in General Chemistry for Mike

Question

In what areas and products is stearic acid used? How is stearic acid metabolized?

Answer 1

In what areas and products are stearic acids used? 

 

Stearic acid is used in making cosmetics, chewing gum, candles, supplements, soap, and cleansers. The acid is applied to improve texture, the efficiency of cleaners, lotion, and skincare. Besides, it is used to soften plastics, creating detergents, house cleaners, and textile softeners. Finally, it is applied in the stabilization of the texture of shaving creams and lubricants.

 

How is stearic acid metabolized?

Stearic acid is digested by gradually cleaving two carbon bits and changing them to acetyl coenzyme A. In the citric acid cycle, acetyl coenzyme A is attached to a four-carbon oxaloacetate molecule to form a six-carbon citrate molecule. The citrate is oxidized through a series of steps, releasing two carbon dioxide molecules for each acetyl group fed into the cycle. The acetyl CoA is then oxidized by the same citric acid cycle involved in glucose releasing energy.