Palmitic acid, scientific name "hexadecanoic acid", also known as palmitic acid, is a saturated higher fatty acid with white pearlescent phosphorus. Insoluble in water, slightly soluble in petroleum ether, soluble in ethanol. Soluble in ether, chloroform and acetic acid. Widely existing in nature, almost all oils and fats contain different amounts of palmitic acid. Used as precipitant, chemical reagent and waterproof agent.