Meq Formula:
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Milliequivalents (meq) and millimoles (mmol) are units used to express the concentration of electrolytes in solution. The conversion between them depends on the valence (charge) of the ion.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: Milliequivalents account for the chemical activity of ions by considering both the amount and charge of the substance.
Details: Accurate meq calculation is essential in medical settings for electrolyte replacement therapy, fluid management, and interpreting laboratory results.
Tips: Enter mmol value and valence. Common valences: Sodium (Na⁺) = 1, Potassium (K⁺) = 1, Calcium (Ca²⁺) = 2, Magnesium (Mg²⁺) = 2.
Q1: What's the difference between mmol and meq?
A: mmol measures the number of particles, while meq measures the chemical combining power or reactive capacity.
Q2: When should I use meq instead of mmol?
A: Use meq when dealing with electrolyte replacement or when chemical equivalence is important for reactions.
Q3: How do I determine the valence of an ion?
A: Valence is determined by the charge of the ion. Monovalent ions have valence 1, divalent ions have valence 2.
Q4: Are there common conversion factors for specific electrolytes?
A: Yes: Sodium 1 mmol = 1 meq, Potassium 1 mmol = 1 meq, Calcium 1 mmol = 2 meq, Magnesium 1 mmol = 2 meq.
Q5: Is this conversion the same for all ages?
A: The conversion formula is chemically consistent across ages, but clinical interpretation of results may vary by age group.