In the concentration method of tonicity calculations, what do you subtract from the standard osmolarity?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the concentration method used in tonicity calculations and specifically what value is subtracted from a standard osmolarity in this context.
Answer
Subtract concentration of impermeable solutes from standard osmolarity.
In the concentration method of tonicity calculations, you subtract the concentration of impermeable solutes in the intracellular fluid from the standard osmolarity to determine tonicity.
Answer for screen readers
In the concentration method of tonicity calculations, you subtract the concentration of impermeable solutes in the intracellular fluid from the standard osmolarity to determine tonicity.
More Information
Tonicity takes into account the effect of the solutes that cannot cross the membrane, influencing the cell's tendency to gain or lose water.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing osmolarity with tonicity. Osmolarity includes all solutes, while tonicity focuses only on those that affect water movement across cells.
Sources
- Osmolarity, osmolality, tonicity, and the reflection coefficient - derangedphysiology.com
- 2.3: Osmolarity and Tonicity - Medicine LibreTexts - med.libretexts.org
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