boot - Install Ubuntu on 2006 Macbook?

I've seen this issue come up on other threads, but I am new here and unable to comment. So here goes my new thread. Thank you for your patience.

I have a late 2006 MacBook 2.0ghz duo core w/ 3gb ram. It's running OS x Tiger (don't laugh!) and thus pretty much obsolete. It seems to meet the minimum requirements for Ubuntu, based on what I've read here. The thing is, I can't download directly to the Macbook because the browser doesn't support...well, anything new. But I have access to newer machines with windows, sierra, and chrome os. Can I use any of these to create a thumb drive boot that will install on the old macbook?

Thumb drive option seems like the way to go, but I've been reading threads and some people have been having image issues. They also haven't posted whether it's been resolved and most threads are pretty old.

Also, I'd rather not dual boot the old Macbook and instead just run Ubuntu, xfce if possible. If anyone can point me in the right direction I'd appreciate it.

So, to recap, my questions are:

1. What's the latest version of Ubuntu I could run on the 2006 Macbook and what alternative install should I try first?


2. Is it possible to only boot Ubuntu (do away with Mac OS X altogether)?


3. I'd like to work with xfce, but is there another distribution that may be better suited to my situation?

To be clear, I know I'm experimenting and if something goes wrong it is on me. Just a noob looking for guidance. Thanks!