medical applications of isotonic solutions Flashcards
(7 cards)
What is water potential?
Water potential is the potential energy per unit volume of water.
What is the symbol for water potential?
The symbol for water potential is Ψ.
What are the units for water potential?
The units for water potential are kPa (kilopascals) or MPa (megapascals).
What is the water potential of pure water at standard conditions?
Pure water, at standard atmospheric pressure and 20°C, has a water potential of zero (Ψ = 0).
What factors affect water potential in living systems?
In living systems, solute concentration and hydrostatic pressure affect water potential.
How does solute concentration affect water potential?
Higher solute concentration reduces water potential, making it more negative (less potential energy).
How does hydrostatic pressure affect water potential?
Higher hydrostatic pressure increases water potential, making it more positive (more potential energy).
