Trimyristin, melting point

An ether extraction of nutmeg gives large quantities of trimyristin, a waxy crystalline solid of melting point 57 °C. The IR spectrum of trimyristin shows a very strong absorption at 1733 cm-1. Basic hydrolysis of trimyristin gives 1 equivalent of glycerol and 3 equivalents of myristic acid (tetradecanoic acid). 

Analysis Weigh the trimyristin and determine its melting point. The reported melting point is 55-56 °C. Based on the original weight of nutmeg used, calculate... 

PRACTICE the skill 26.3 For each pair of triglycerides, identify the one that is expected to have the higher melting point. Consult Table 26.1 to determine which fatty acid residues are present in each triglyceride, (a) Trilaurin and trimyristin (b) Triarachidin and trilinolein... 

Draw the stmctures of trimyristin and tripalmitin and determine which is expected to have the lower melting point. Explain your choice. 

Trimyristin is expected to have a lower melting point than tripahnitin because the former is comprised of fatty acid residues with fewer carbon atoms (14 instead of 16). 

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