Convert 5% to mg/mL:
A. 500
B. 50
C. 5
D. 5000
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To convert a percentage concentration to milligrams per milliliter (mg/mL), we need to understand what the percentage means. A 5% solution means there are 5 grams of solute per 100 mL of solution.
Step-by-Step Conversion:
- Understand the Percentage:
- A 5% solution indicates that there are 5 grams of solute in 100 mL of solution.
- Convert Grams to Milligrams:
- Since 1 gram is equal to 1000 milligrams, we convert 5 grams to milligrams:
[
5 \, \text{grams} = 5 \times 1000 = 5000 \, \text{mg}
]
- Determine Concentration in mg/mL:
- To find the concentration in mg/mL, we divide the total milligrams by the volume in milliliters:
[
\text{Concentration} = \frac{5000 \, \text{mg}}{100 \, \text{mL}} = 50 \, \text{mg/mL}
]
Conclusion:
Thus, the correct conversion of 5% to mg/mL is 50 mg/mL, corresponding to option B.
Additional Explanation:
Understanding how to convert percentages to mg/mL is essential in fields like nursing, pharmacy, and chemistry, where precise dosing of medications or solutions is critical. Percent concentrations often express how much solute is present in a given volume of solution. By converting to mg/mL, healthcare professionals can easily determine the exact dosage required for medications.
Knowing that percentages represent grams per 100 mL allows for easy conversions, as seen in the calculation above. This process is crucial for ensuring patient safety, as incorrect dosages can lead to ineffective treatment or adverse reactions.
When preparing medications, it’s also important to consider factors such as solubility and patient-specific factors, as different solutions may require different handling and preparation methods. Thus, having a firm grasp of concentration conversions not only aids in accurate dosing but also enhances overall clinical practice.