Question

Define electrolyte, cation, anion, osmosis, and osmolarity. (pp. 439,440 )

Short answer

Question: Provide a clear and concise definition for each of the following terms: electrolyte, cation, anion, osmosis, and osmolarity. Answer: An electrolyte is a substance that ionizes into positive and negative ions when dissolved, allowing the solution to conduct electric current. A cation is a positively charged ion formed when an atom or molecule loses electrons. An anion is a negatively charged ion formed when an atom or molecule gains electrons. Osmosis is the passive movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration. Osmolarity is a measure of the total concentration of solute particles in a solution, expressed as osmoles per liter, and determines the distribution of substances and fluid balance between compartments in the body.

Step-by-step solution

1. Define Electrolyte

An electrolyte is a substance that, when dissolved in solution, ionizes into positively and negatively charged ions, allowing the solution to conduct electric current. Electrolytes play essential roles in various physiological processes, such as maintaining fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve conduction.

2. Define Cation

A cation is a positively charged ion. It forms when an atom or molecule loses one or more electrons during the process of ionization. Examples of common cations include sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+).

3. Define Anion

An anion is a negatively charged ion that forms when an atom or molecule gains one or more electrons during the process of ionization. Examples of common anions include chloride (Cl-) and bicarbonate (HCO3-).

4. Define Osmosis

Osmosis is the passive movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to one of higher solute concentration. This process continues until an equilibrium in solute concentration is reached across the membrane. Osmosis helps regulate fluid balance within cells and throughout the body.

5. Define Osmolarity

Osmolarity is a measure of the total concentration of solute particles in a solution, expressed as osmoles (Osm) per liter (L) of solution. It is a measure of the solution's ability to cause osmosis across a selectively permeable membrane. A higher osmolarity solution has more solute particles, leading to a stronger osmotic pressure and greater movement of water molecules. Osmolarity helps determine how substances are distributed between different compartments in the body and affects the balance of fluid between them.