What defines unsaturated fats?

Unsaturated fats are characterized by the presence of one or more double bonds between carbon atoms in their fatty acid chains. This structural feature is crucial because it affects both the physical properties and health implications of these fats. Unsaturated fats are typically liquid at room temperature, which contrasts with saturated fats that are solid. The existence of double bonds introduces kinks in the fatty acid chains, preventing them from packing closely together, which contributes to their liquid state.

Unsaturated fats are primarily found in plant oils, nuts, and fish, and they can be beneficial to health, as they help reduce bad cholesterol levels and provide essential fatty acids that the body cannot synthesize. This contrasts with other types of fats that may not have the same health benefits. The presence of double bonds, therefore, is the defining characteristic of unsaturated fats, distinguishing them from their saturated counterparts.