**What is the chemical name of Vitamin A?**
VerifiedAnswer: Retinol
Explanation:
The chemical name of Vitamin A is retinol, which is the most common and active form of this essential vitamin. Retinol belongs to a group of compounds called retinoids, which are fat-soluble vitamins that play crucial roles in various bodily functions including vision, immune system support, and cellular growth.
Retinol has the molecular formula C₂₀H₃₀O and consists of a cyclic structure with a long carbon chain. It exists in several forms in nature, including retinyl esters (storage form), retinal (active in vision), and retinoic acid (important for gene regulation). However, when we refer to Vitamin A in its pure form, we're typically talking about retinol.
This vitamin is primarily found in animal products such as liver, fish oils, dairy products, and eggs. Our body can also convert beta-carotene from plant sources like carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy green vegetables into retinol, which is why these foods are considered good sources of Vitamin A activity.
Understanding the chemical name helps us appreciate why Vitamin A is so important for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell division and differentiation throughout the body.
