To determine how many milliequivalents (mEq) of magnesium sulfate are present in 5 millimoles (mmoles) of it, follow these steps:
1. Determine the valence of magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄): Magnesium (Mg) has a valence of +2. This means each mole of magnesium sulfate will provide 2 equivalents of charge.
2. Understand the relationship between millimoles and milliequivalents: Milliequivalents take into account both the amount of the substance and its valence. The formula to convert millimoles to milliequivalents is:
[tex]\[
\text{mEq} = \text{mmoles} \times \text{valence}
\][/tex]
3. Calculate the mEq for 5 mmoles of MgSO₄:
[tex]\[
\text{mEq} = 5 \, \text{mmoles} \times 2
\][/tex]
4. Perform the multiplication:
[tex]\[
\text{mEq} = 10 \, \text{mEq}
\][/tex]
Therefore, 5 mmoles of magnesium sulfate is equal to 10 milliequivalents (mEq).
