Osmolarity

Osmolarity refers to the measure of solute concentration, defined as the number of solute particles per liter of solution. It is used in biology and chemistry to understand the properties of solutions and how they interact with each other. Osmolarity is a key factor in the process of osmosis, which is the movement of solvent molecules from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Definition

Osmolarity is defined as the total concentration of all solute particles in a solution. It is expressed in terms of osmoles per liter (Osm/L). An osmole is a measure of the number of moles of solute that contribute to the osmotic pressure of a solution.

Measurement

Osmolarity can be measured using an osmometer, which determines the freezing point depression or boiling point elevation of a solution. The osmometer measures the concentration of all solutes in a solution, including those that may not contribute to osmotic pressure.

Clinical significance

In medicine, osmolarity is used to evaluate the body's water balance and to diagnose and monitor certain diseases. For example, the osmolarity of blood can be measured to determine if a person is dehydrated or overhydrated. High blood osmolarity can indicate dehydration, while low blood osmolarity can indicate overhydration.

See also

• Osmolality
• Osmotic pressure
• Tonicity
• Osmoregulation

References

Osmolarity Resources
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