Distribution constant

Distribution constant (K_d), also known as the partition coefficient, is a term used in chemistry to describe the equilibrium concentration ratio of a compound distributed between two immiscible phases. The concept is particularly important in the fields of pharmacology, environmental chemistry, and analytical chemistry.

Definition

The distribution constant, K_d, is defined as the ratio of concentrations of a solute in two different phases at equilibrium. Mathematically, it is expressed as:

\[ K_d = \frac{[A]_2}{[A]_1} \]

where:

• [A]_2 is the concentration of the solute in phase 2,
• [A]_1 is the concentration of the solute in phase 1.

These phases can be a combination of solid-liquid, liquid-liquid, or gas-liquid systems. The distribution constant is dimensionless and provides a measure of how much a compound prefers one phase over another, which is a critical factor in the design of separation and purification processes.

Applications

1. 1. 1. Pharmacology

In pharmacology, K_d is crucial for understanding the distribution of drugs within the body, affecting both the efficacy and toxicity of therapeutic agents. Drugs with a favorable distribution constant are more likely to reach their target tissues effectively.

1. 1. 1. Environmental Chemistry

In environmental chemistry, K_d helps in predicting the movement of pollutants between environmental compartments such as water, soil, and air. This is vital for assessing the environmental impact and the potential risks to human health and ecosystems.

1. 1. 1. Analytical Chemistry

In analytical chemistry, the distribution constant is used to optimize the conditions for chromatography and other separation techniques. A higher K_d value indicates that a substance is more likely to remain in the mobile phase than in the stationary phase, influencing the retention time and separation efficiency.

Factors Influencing K_d

Several factors can affect the distribution constant:

• **Polarity of the solvent**: Non-polar compounds tend to have higher K_d values in non-polar solvents and vice versa.
• **Temperature**: Increasing temperature generally increases the solubility of a compound in both phases, which can alter the K_d.
• **pH of the medium**: The ionization state of a compound can change with pH, influencing its solubility and distribution between phases.

See Also

• Solubility
• Partition coefficient
• Chromatography