Multiple Choice
Rank the following compounds according to increasing water solubility:
i) CH3-CH2-CH2-CH3
ii) CH3-CH2-O-CH2-CH3
iii) CH3-CH2-OH
iv) CH3-OH
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2. Water
Properties of Water
Multiple Choice
Why do hospitals use saline solutions to hydrate patients instead of distilled water?
A
Saline solutions are isotonic to human blood, preventing red blood cells from swelling or bursting.
B
Saline solutions provide more energy to the body than distilled water.
C
Distilled water is too acidic for intravenous use.
D
Distilled water contains harmful chemicals that can damage cells.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of tonicity: Tonicity refers to the ability of a solution to affect the movement of water across a cell membrane. Solutions can be isotonic, hypotonic, or hypertonic relative to the cells.
Recognize the importance of isotonic solutions: Saline solutions are isotonic, meaning they have the same concentration of solutes as human blood. This prevents water from moving excessively into or out of red blood cells, maintaining their normal shape and function.
Compare distilled water to saline: Distilled water is hypotonic, meaning it has a lower solute concentration than human blood. If used intravenously, it would cause water to rush into red blood cells, leading to swelling and potential bursting (hemolysis).
Clarify why saline is preferred: Saline solutions mimic the natural osmotic balance of blood, ensuring that cells remain stable and functional during hydration therapy. This is critical for patient safety.
Address misconceptions: Distilled water is not inherently harmful or acidic, nor does it contain harmful chemicals. The primary issue is its hypotonic nature, which makes it unsuitable for intravenous use.
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