Question detail
Why can barium sulfate be used in medical imaging despite the toxicity of other barium compounds?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
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exam_style
Style
Topic
Group 2, the alkaline earth metals
Question
Why can barium sulfate be used in medical imaging despite the toxicity of other barium compounds?
Answer
Barium sulfate is used in medical imaging because it is insoluble in water. This means that when ingested, it does not dissolve in the body, preventing the toxic effects associated with soluble barium compounds. As a result, it can safely outline the gastrointestinal tract in X-ray imaging without being absorbed into the bloodstream.
Explanation
This answer is strong because it clearly identifies the cause (insolubility of barium sulfate), explains the mechanism (it does not dissolve in the body), states the effect (prevents toxicity), and concludes with the consequence (safe use in medical imaging). The question tests understanding of the relationship between chemical properties and practical applications.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Barium Sulfate's Safety
Students often believe that barium sulfate is safe to use in medicine because it is a barium compound, overlooking its toxicity.
Barium sulfate is used in medicine because it is insoluble in water, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream, thus minimizing toxicity while allowing it to be used as a contrast agent in medical imaging.
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