Which of the following chemicals is most likely to cause a metallic taste in a client's mouth after treatment?

• A. Silver nitrate (AgNO_3)
• B. Potassium permanganate (KMnO_4)
• C. Sodium chloride (NaCl)
• D. Calcium carbonate (CaCO_3)

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a metallic taste in the mouth is often caused by the presence of metal ions or compounds that can interact with taste receptors or mucous membranes.
2. Review the chemical nature of each compound: Silver nitrate (AgNO_3) contains silver ions (Ag^+), which are metal ions known to cause metallic tastes; Potassium permanganate (KMnO_4) contains manganese in a high oxidation state, but it is less commonly associated with metallic taste; Sodium chloride (NaCl) is common table salt and typically causes a salty taste, not metallic; Calcium carbonate (CaCO_3) is a salt of calcium and carbonate ions, usually tasteless or chalky.
3. Recognize that silver ions (Ag^+) from silver nitrate can interact with proteins and enzymes in the mouth, leading to a characteristic metallic taste sensation.
4. Conclude that among the given options, silver nitrate (AgNO_3) is the most likely to cause a metallic taste due to the presence of silver ions.
5. Summarize that the key factor is the presence of metal ions capable of producing a metallic taste, which is most prominent in silver nitrate compared to the other compounds listed.