myristic acid

chemical compound

Also known as: n-tetradecanoic acid, tetradecanoic acid

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July 1, 2026

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Myristic acid is a crystalline fatty acid with the chemical formula C₁₄H₂₈O₂. It is commonly found in the form of glycerides, which are esters containing fatty acids and glycerol, within most fats. Trimyristin is a specific example, being the solid triglyceride of myristic acid, and is notably present in nutmegs. This compound is also known as glycerol tri-myristate. The name "myristic" originates from Myristica, a genus of trees.12

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carboxylic acid
Saturated aliphatic acids
…from C₁₂ to C₁₈ (lauric, myristic, palmitic, and stearic), are present in the fats and oils of many animals and plants, with palmitic and stearic acids being the most prevalent. Lauric acid (C₁₂) is the main acid in coconut oil (45–50 percent) and palm kernel oil (45–55 percent). Nutmeg butter…
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…from C₁₂ to C₁₈ (lauric, myristic, palmitic, and stearic), are present in the fats and oils of many animals and plants, with palmitic and stearic acids being the most prevalent. Lauric acid (C₁₂) is the main acid in coconut oil (45–50 percent) and palm kernel oil (45–55 percent). Nutmeg butter…
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