0.04 M Solution of Na2SO4 is Isotonic: Understanding the Concept
What is an Isotonic Solution?
An isotonic solution is a solution that has the same concentration of solutes as another solution, typically a bodily fluid such as blood or tissue fluid. This means that the osmotic pressure of the two solutions is equal, and there is no net movement of water molecules into or out of the cell when they are placed in contact with each other.
Na2SO4 Solution
Sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) is a strong electrolyte that dissociates completely in water to form sodium ions (Na+) and sulfate ions (SO42-). A 0.04 M solution of Na2SO4 is a solution that contains 0.04 moles of Na2SO4 per liter of solution.
Why is 0.04 M Na2SO4 Isotonic?
A 0.04 M solution of Na2SO4 is isotonic because it has the same osmotic pressure as blood. The osmotic pressure of blood is approximately 7.7 atmospheres, which is equivalent to a concentration of solutes of around 0.9%. A 0.04 M solution of Na2SO4 has a similar concentration of solutes, making it isotonic with blood.
Importance of Isotonic Solutions
Isotonic solutions are important in medical and biological applications because they do not cause cells to swell or shrink due to changes in osmotic pressure. This is particularly important when injecting solutions into the body or when performing cellular experiments. Isotonic solutions help to maintain the integrity of cells and prevent damage or lysis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a 0.04 M solution of Na2SO4 is isotonic because it has the same concentration of solutes as blood. This makes it an important solution in medical and biological applications where the maintenance of cellular integrity is crucial. Understanding the concept of isotonic solutions and their importance is essential in various fields of study.
