Question

Which of the tests is used to differentiate whether the oil is rich in saturated or unsaturated fatty acids?

• A. Iodine number
• B. Acid value
• C. Saponification value
• D. Acrolein test

Hint:

A higher iodine number indicates more unsaturation, as more iodine is absorbed by oils with double bonds.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Iodine Number 
The iodine number measures the amount of iodine that can be absorbed by the oil, which correlates with the level of unsaturation (double bonds) in fatty acids. 
Step 2: Evaluating the Options 
- Iodine number: Measures unsaturation; higher iodine numbers indicate more unsaturation (more double bonds). 
- Acid value: Measures the free fatty acid content, not saturation.
- Saponification value: Relates to the average molecular weight of fatty acids, not directly to unsaturation. 
- Acrolein test: Used to detect glycerol-based compounds, not to differentiate between saturated or unsaturated fatty acids. 
Step 3: Conclusion 
Iodine number is the correct test for measuring unsaturation in oils.