In: Chemistry
A Ringer’s solution contains the following concentrations of cations: 144 mEq/L of Na+, 5 mEq/L of K+, and 5 mEq/L of Ca2+.
Part A: If Cl− is the only anion in the solution, what is the Cl− concentration in milliequivalents per liter? Express the concentration in milliequivalents per liter to three significant figures.
Every solution follows the principle of electroneutrality where the number of equivalents of cations and anions are equal.
Hence, the sum of miliequivalents of cations will be equal to the sum of miliequivalents of anions.
Now, the total concentrations of cations can be calculated as follows:
Cation | Concentration |
144 mEq/L | |
5 mEq/L | |
5 mEq/L | |
Total | 154 mEq/L |
Now, since the only anion in the solution is Cl-, its concentration must be equal to the sum of concentrations of all cations.
Hence, the concentration of Cl- in the solution is .