Which of the following types of fat tends to be solid at room temperature and can increase cholesterol levels?

Saturated fat is a type of fat that is typically solid at room temperature. Its chemical structure is characterized by saturated carbon chains, meaning that all available bonds are filled with hydrogen atoms, leading to a more stable, solid form at normal temperatures. Common sources of saturated fats include animal products such as meat and dairy, as well as some plant oils like coconut oil.

In terms of health, saturated fats can raise levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the bloodstream, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Elevated LDL cholesterol levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Trans fats, while also solid at room temperature, are created through industrial processes and behave differently than saturated fats in the body. Unsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids are generally liquid at room temperature and are considered beneficial for heart health, as they can help lower cholesterol levels instead of increasing them.