2.
Bees can convert stearic acid into A or B as shown below.
LOH
OH
A
Bees
OH
HO
B
OH
(i) Propose a biosynthesis of A and B from stearic acid, showing all steps with enzymes and
cofactors.
[10]
(ii)
If [18,18,18-$^2$H$_3$]-stearic acid was used, predict how many deuterium atoms would be
found in A and B.
[2]
(iii) When 2-fluorostearic acid was used, the bees were unable to make A and B. Account for
this observation.
[3]
