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Mixed up Mixture

Age 14 to 16
Challenge Level Yellow star
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First divide the numbers into groups according to whether they are concentrations, pure numbers, or volumes.

Secondly, group the concentrations into pairs, along with the required dilution factor. Then, divide 5ml by the dilution factor to additionally find the volume added.

The numbers should be in groups of 4 now, with three additional outlying numbers.


Thirdly, think which of the components added would be measured as a number per ml, rather than a number of moles per ml. This will assign one group of 4 numbers.

Fourthly, think which of the remaining items has a large molecular weight, and so will only have a low molar concentration added. Assign this group of 4 numbers.

The final two groups are hard to assign: research what the intracellular concentration of sodium ions is, since the NaCl is added to keep the solution isotonic.

The data should be all assigned now, and the sum of the added volumes should be equal to one of the leftover numbers. What might the final number represent?

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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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