Question

Xrays Why is barium sulfate a better choice than barium chloride for adding definition to \(\mathrm{X}\) rays? At \(26^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) 37.5 \(\mathrm{g}\) of \(\mathrm{BaCl}_{2}\) can be dissolved in 100 \(\mathrm{mL}\) of water.

Short answer

In conclusion, barium sulfate is a better choice than barium chloride for adding definition to X-rays due to its insolubility in water, non-toxic nature, and ability to effectively absorb X-rays. While both compounds contain barium, which effectively absorbs X-rays, barium sulfate does not dissolve in water and cause toxicity, unlike barium chloride, which is highly soluble and toxic.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the properties of barium sulfate and barium chloride

First, let's understand the properties of barium sulfate (BaSO4) and barium chloride (BaCl2). BaSO4: - Insoluble in water - Non-toxic - Opaque to X-rays BaCl2: - Highly soluble in water (37.5 g can be dissolved in 100 mL of water at 26°C) - Toxic

Analyzing the interaction with X-rays

Now let's discuss how each compound interacts with X-rays. X-rays pass through tissues with different attenuation levels, depending on their densities. Dense materials with high atomic numbers absorb X-rays more than lighter materials. Barium, with an atomic number of 56, is suitable for this purpose since it is dense and heavy. Both compounds contain barium, which is heavy and has a high atomic number; thus, it can effectively absorb X-rays. But the critical difference lies in their solubility in water.

Discussing solubility factors

When a contrast agent is administered in the body (e.g., gastrointestinal tract), it needs to be mostly insoluble in water. It is crucial to avoid toxic compounds mixing with the bloodstream, causing potential harm. Barium sulfate is almost insoluble in water, making it a perfect choice for a contrast agent. As it won't dissolve in water, it creates a coating layer in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing the visualization of the tissue after the X-ray is taken. On the other hand, barium chloride is highly soluble in water, and 37.5 g can be dissolved in 100 mL of water at 26°C. Ingesting barium chloride would be risky, as the dissolved compound could potentially enter the bloodstream and cause toxicity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, barium sulfate is a better choice than barium chloride for adding definition to X-rays because of the following reasons: 1. Barium sulfate is mostly insoluble in water, ensuring it won't mix with the bloodstream and cause toxicity. 2. It is non-toxic compared to barium chloride, which is a toxic compound. 3. Both compounds contain barium, which effectively absorbs X-rays, making them dense and opaque. So, due to its insolubility, non-toxic nature, and ability to absorb X-rays effectively, barium sulfate is preferred over barium chloride for the purpose of X-ray radiography.

Key concepts

Barium Sulfate

Barium sulfate (\(\text{BaSO}_4\)) is a compound widely used in medical radiography as a contrast agent. The unique properties of this compound make it an excellent choice for enhancing the contrast in X-ray images.
Its main advantage is its insolubility in water. When used in medical procedures, barium sulfate does not dissolve in bodily fluids. This ensures that it remains within the designated areas, such as the gastrointestinal tract, providing a clear outline or coating that is visible on X-rays.
Additionally, barium sulfate is non-toxic. Despite containing barium, which can be harmful in other forms, the sulfate component renders it harmless when used internal to the body. This ensures patient safety during procedures that require internal imaging.

Solubility

Solubility is a critical factor when choosing a contrast agent for X-ray procedures. The soluble nature of a compound determines how it interacts with water and bodily fluids.

• Insoluble compounds like barium sulfate occupy the targeted areas effectively without absorbing into the bloodstream.
• Soluble compounds can disperse more freely in the body, potentially leading to undesirable distribution and toxic effects.

Barium sulfate's nearly insoluble characteristic in water makes it ideal for use as a contrast agent. It stays put and creates an effective layer that enhances the visibility of internal structures during radiography. Solubility is vital in preventing harmful interactions within the body.

Toxicity

Understanding toxicity is vital when selecting materials for medical applications. Barium chloride (\(\text{BaCl}_2\)), unlike barium sulfate, is toxic due to its solubility.
When soluble compounds like barium chloride are introduced to the body, they can dissolve in fluids and be absorbed into the bloodstream. This leads to the possibility of poisoning, as the compound can spread to various organs.
Conversely, barium sulfate is non-toxic precisely because it doesn't dissolve in the body. This property prevents it from entering the bloodstream and causing potential harm. Selecting non-toxic materials like barium sulfate is essential to ensure patient safety during diagnostic procedures.

Radiography

Radiography is a technique used to create images of the internal structures of the body using electromagnetic radiation, particularly X-rays.
Barium sulfate's opacity to X-rays makes it exceptionally beneficial in this field. When ingested or introduced into the body, it effectively blocks X-rays, preventing them from passing through. This blockage creates a stark contrast on X-ray films, highlighting the outlines of organs or sections filled with barium sulfate.

• This process helps in the diagnosis of various gastrointestinal disorders.
• It offers a clear view of any abnormalities within the tract.

Effective radiography relies on contrast agents like barium sulfate to provide clear and precise images for medical analysis.

Barium Chloride

Barium chloride (\(\text{BaCl}_2\)) is another compound containing barium that differs greatly from barium sulfate in terms of applications and safety.

• With its high solubility, barium chloride can dissolve in water and bodily fluids, posing significant risks.
• Exposing the body to barium chloride can lead to severe toxicity, making it unsuitable for use as a medical contrast agent.

In X-ray contrast applications, the high solubility and toxicity of barium chloride make it a poor choice. It is imperative to select compounds that minimize the risk to patients while optimizing the quality of diagnostic images, which is why barium sulfate is preferred over barium chloride in radiographic procedures.