A grams to mEq calculator converts the weight of a substance in grams into milliequivalents (mEq). This belongs to the chemistry and medical calculator category. Milliequivalents are commonly used in medicine, pharmacology, and laboratory sciences to express the amount of ions in a solution. For example, electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride are often measured in mEq. Using this calculator helps ensure precise dosing, accurate lab reporting, and safe medical practices.
formula
Formula for Milliequivalents (mEq)
mEq = (Grams * Valence * 1000) / Molar Mass
Variables Explained
Grams: The mass of the substance in grams.
Molar Mass (g/mol): The weight of one mole of the substance, unique for each compound.
Valence: The ionic charge of the element or compound.
Common valence values:
For Sodium (Na⁺), Valence = 1
For Calcium (Ca²⁺), Valence = 2
For Chloride (Cl⁻), Valence = 1
Example Formula for Potassium Chloride (KCl)
Molar Mass of KCl = 74.55 g/mol
Valence = 1
mEq of KCl = (Grams of KCl * 1 * 1000) / 74.55
General Conversion Table
Here is a reference table with approximate conversions for some common substances often used in medical and laboratory fields.
Substance | Molar Mass (g/mol) | Valence | 1 gram = mEq |
---|---|---|---|
Sodium (Na⁺) | 23.0 | 1 | 43.48 |
Potassium (K⁺) | 39.1 | 1 | 25.57 |
Calcium (Ca²⁺) | 40.1 | 2 | 49.88 |
Chloride (Cl⁻) | 35.45 | 1 | 28.21 |
KCl | 74.55 | 1 | 13.41 |
NaCl | 58.44 | 1 | 17.12 |
This table is useful for quick conversions without needing to calculate every time.
Example
Suppose you have 2 grams of KCl and want to convert it into mEq.
Using the formula:
mEq = (Grams * Valence * 1000) / Molar Mass
mEq = (2 * 1 * 1000) / 74.55
mEq ≈ 26.8
So, 2 grams of KCl equals about 26.8 mEq.
Most Common FAQs
Because mEq measures the actual chemical activity of ions, which is more relevant for biological processes than just weight.
Yes, as long as you know the molar mass and the valence of the compound, you can calculate the mEq.
Yes, it is accurate if the correct molar mass and valence values are used. However, in medical practice, results should always be cross-checked with reliable medical references or laboratory data.