What type of solution is characterized by 40 mM CaCl₂, 20 mM urea, 280 mM glucose, and 90 mM NaCl?

To determine the characterization of the solution with 40 mM CaCl₂, 20 mM urea, 280 mM glucose, and 90 mM NaCl, it’s essential to calculate the osmolarity, which takes into account the number of particles contributed by each solute when dissolved in a solution.

1. Calcium Chloride (CaCl₂) dissociates into three particles: one Ca²⁺ and two Cl⁻ ions. Therefore, 40 mM of CaCl₂ contributes 120 mOsm/L (40 mM x 3).

2. Urea does not dissociate and contributes only its molarity, which is 20 mM or 20 mOsm/L.

3. Glucose also does not dissociate and contributes its own molarity, contributing 280 mM or 280 mOsm/L.

4. Sodium Chloride (NaCl) dissociates into two particles: one Na⁺ and one Cl⁻. Thus, 90 mM of NaCl contributes 180 mOsm/L (90 mM x 2).

Now, summing these contributions gives:

• CaCl₂: