How do unsaturated fats differ from saturated fats?

Unsaturated fats are characterized by having fewer hydrogen atoms bonded to carbon compared to saturated fats. This difference arises due to the presence of one or more double bonds between carbon atoms in the fatty acid chains of unsaturated fats. These double bonds create kinks in the structure, preventing the molecules from packing closely together. As a result, unsaturated fats tend to be liquid at room temperature, which contrasts with saturated fats that are fully saturated with hydrogen atoms and typically remain solid at room temperature. This structural variation is crucial in terms of physical properties and health impacts, as unsaturated fats are often considered healthier dietary fats.