Molecular Weight Of HCO3 Is 61 G/Mole. What Is The Equivalent Weight? Og
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
The equivalent weight of HCO₃⁻ (bicarbonate) is 61 g/eq.
Explanation:
To determine the equivalent weight of a substance, we use the formula:
Equivalent weight = Molecular weight / n,
where n is the number of replaceable hydrogen ions (H⁺) the substance can donate or accept in a chemical reaction, or the number of charges it can carry in a redox or acid-base reaction.
Step-by-Step Analysis:
1. Given:
- Molecular weight (MW) of HCO₃⁻ = 61 g/mol
2. Determine the number of equivalents (n):
- HCO₃⁻ is the bicarbonate ion, which can accept 1 H⁺ to form H₂CO₃ (carbonic acid), or donate 1 H⁺ to form CO₃²⁻ (carbonate ion).
- In acid-base reactions, it acts as a monovalent ion, meaning n = 1 equivalent per mole.
3. Apply the formula: Equivalent weight=61 g/mol1=61 g/eq\text{Equivalent weight} = \frac{61\ \text{g/mol}}{1} = 61\ \text{g/eq}Equivalent weight=161 g/mol=61 g/eq
Why This Is Important:
In clinical settings, especially in acid-base balance and metabolic panel interpretations, the bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻) plays a critical role. It is a buffer that helps maintain physiological pH.
Understanding its equivalent weight helps in:
- Calculating normality (N) of bicarbonate solutions.
- Interpreting anion gap or buffer capacities.
- Preparing reagents in titration or dialysis solutions.
Summary:
- Molecular weight of HCO₃⁻ = 61 g/mol
- Number of equivalents (n) = 1
- Equivalent weight = 61 g/eq
Thus, the equivalent weight of HCO₃⁻ is 61 grams per equivalent, the same as its molecular weight due to its monovalent charge
