Long chain fatty acids are defined as having how many carbons?

• A. 2-4 carbons
• B. 14-18 carbons
• C. 6-12 carbons
• D. 20+ carbons

Answer: (B)

Fatty acids are grouped by how many carbon atoms they contain, and this length guides how they are digested and transported in the body. Long-chain fatty acids have about 14 to 18 carbon atoms. This length means they require bile–assisted emulsification and pancreatic lipase, are packaged into chylomicrons for lymphatic transport, and take longer to absorb compared with shorter chains. Short-chain fats (roughly 2–4 carbons) and medium-chain fats (roughly 6–12) behave differently in digestion and absorption, while very long-chain fats (20 or more carbons) form a separate category. So 14–18 carbons best fits the long-chain designation.