How many mEq are in 1 g of sodium chloride? (Molecular weight = 58.5 g)

To determine the number of milliequivalents (mEq) in 1 gram of sodium chloride (NaCl), we need to start by understanding the concept of equivalent weight. The equivalent weight of a substance relates the weight of that substance to its ability to combine with or displace other substances in a chemical reaction.

Sodium chloride dissociates in solution to produce sodium ions (Na⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻). Each mole of sodium chloride provides one equivalent of sodium ions and one equivalent of chloride ions.

1. First, calculate the number of moles of sodium chloride in 1 gram:

• Using the molecular weight of NaCl, which is 58.5 g/mol, you can find the number of moles in 1 gram by using the formula:

[ \text{Moles of NaCl} = \frac{\text{mass (g)}}{\text{molecular weight (g/mol)}} ]

[ \text{Moles of NaCl} = \frac{1 \text{ g}}{58.5 \text{ g/mol}} \approx 0.0171 \text{ moles} ]

2. Since each mole of Na