Chapter U4.12, Problem 1TAI

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The relation between moles and toxicity must be explained.

Concept introduction:

Toxicity of a substance is generally expressed as LD₅₀ value. It is given in mg/kg body weight.

Answer to Problem 1TAI

LD50 values for different substances can be converted to moles/kg unit to compare toxicity.

Explanation of Solution

Saccharin has LD₅₀value 140 mg/kg. aspartame has LD₅₀ value 10 mg/kg.

Both of these can be converted to moles/kg dose by dividing the mass(in g) with molecular weight to compare the toxicity.

Moles of saccharine in 140 mg is $\left(140\times {10}^{-3}\right)/183=7.6\times {10}^{-4}$ .

LD₅₀ value for saccharine is $7.6\times {10}^{-4}\mathrm{moles}/kg$ .

Moles of aspartame in 10 mg is $\left(10\times {10}^{-3}\right)/294=3.4\times {10}^{-5}$ .

Thus, LD50 of aspartame in moles/kg is lesser as compared to saccharine.