molecules are capable of forming so many
bonds along their lengthy hydrocarbon chains,
the individually weak interactions have a
large net effect: it takes a lot of heat energy to
knock the molecules apart from each other.
Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are
unsaturated fatty acids whose first double
bond begins at the third carbon atom from the
end. (The most common unsaturated fatty
acids are omega-6 fatty acids.) They are
essential in our diet for, among other things,
the proper function of the immune and
cardiovascular systems. Linolenic acid has 3
double bonds among its 18 carbon atoms, and
is found in green leaves and in some seed oils.
Eicosapentaenoic acid has 20 carbons and 5
double bonds, and is found almost exclusively
in seafood (p. 183).