State whether each of the following refers to a saturated or an unsaturated solution:c. A uric acid concentration of 4.6 mg/100 mL in the kidney does not cause gout.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions: A saturated solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve at a given temperature, while an unsaturated solution contains less solute than the maximum amount that can dissolve.
2. Identify the context: The problem mentions uric acid concentration in the kidney and its relation to causing gout.
3. Recognize that if a solution does not cause gout, it implies that the concentration of uric acid is below the level that would lead to crystallization or saturation.
4. Conclude that since the uric acid concentration of 4.6 mg/100 mL does not cause gout, it suggests that the solution is unsaturated.
5. Therefore, the uric acid concentration of 4.6 mg/100 mL in the kidney refers to an unsaturated solution.

Key Concepts

Saturated Solution

A saturated solution is one in which the maximum amount of solute has been dissolved in a solvent at a given temperature and pressure. Beyond this point, any additional solute will not dissolve and will remain as a solid. In the context of uric acid, a saturated solution would indicate that the concentration of uric acid exceeds the solubility limit, potentially leading to the formation of crystals and conditions like gout.

Unsaturated Solution

An unsaturated solution is one that contains less solute than the maximum amount that can be dissolved in the solvent at a specific temperature and pressure. This means that more solute can still be added and will dissolve. In the case of uric acid at a concentration of 4.6 mg/100 mL, if this level is below the solubility limit, the solution is considered unsaturated, which is why it does not cause gout.

Gout and Uric Acid

Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, often caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals. Uric acid is a waste product formed from the breakdown of purines, and when its concentration in the blood exceeds the solubility limit, it can crystallize in joints, leading to gout. Understanding the relationship between uric acid concentration and its solubility is crucial for assessing the risk of developing gout.