Problem 54 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

When a few typical solutes are separated by a particular selective membrane, such as protein particles from blood corpuscles, the process is called (a) exosmosis (b) dialysis (c) transpiration (d) endosmosis

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

(b) dialysis

Step 1: Understand the Term 'Selective Membrane'

A selective membrane is one that allows certain substances to pass through while blocking others. This property is essential in processes involving separation based on molecular size or other characteristics.

Step 2: Identify the Process Involving Solute Separation

The question mentions the separation of solutes like protein particles from blood corpuscles. This indicates a process where only certain particles are allowed to pass through the membrane based on size or charge.

Step 3: Determine the Correct Process Based on Membrane Function

Among the given options, dialysis is the process specifically known for using a selective membrane to separate small solutes (like proteins) from larger particles (such as blood corpuscles). It is commonly used in medical treatments to purify blood.

Key Concepts

Selective Membrane

In the realm of biology and chemistry, a selective membrane plays a crucial role in the separation and filtration processes. It essentially acts like a fine sieve. Imagine a mesh screen that lets water pass but stops leaves and branches from going through.
This is a simplified version of what a selective membrane does at a molecular level. It allows only certain substances, often based on specific properties such as molecular size or charge, to pass through.

• Selective membranes are used in various technologies and processes, like dialysis, to ensure that only certain molecules can pass through, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the separation process.
• In medical applications, these membranes help in eliminating unwanted particles from blood, thus purifying the blood effectively.

Solute Separation

Solute separation refers to the process of dividing different particles within a solution based on their characteristics. In nature and technology, this can happen in several ways, often involving a selective membrane.
Solute separation is essential in applications where specific particles need to be isolated for use or removal.

• Through solute separation, substances like unwanted toxins, excess salts, or proteins are removed while preserving essential elements like nutrients in blood purification processes.
• This process ensures that only ideal particles are retained, particularly when trying to isolate smaller particles from larger ones, as seen in dialysis.

This mechanism makes it vital not just in healthcare, but also in water treatment and food technology, ensuring that only the desired components are retained or removed from a mixture.

Molecular Size

Molecular size determines how easily a particle can pass through a selective membrane. It's like trying to fit through a door; only those who are small enough will make it through without stopping.
The size of a molecule is a key factor in separation processes, making it a central consideration in dialysis.

• In the context of dialysis, the membranes are designed to allow small molecules like excess salts and waste to pass through while holding back larger molecules such as proteins and blood cells.
• This selective process based on molecular size ensures that only undesirable or excess substances are removed, allowing essential components to remain in the body.

Blood Purification

Blood purification is a critical medical process aimed at removing toxins and excess substances from the blood. Dialysis is one of the main pathways to achieve this, particularly for individuals whose kidneys can't filter blood effectively on their own.
In dialysis, a selective membrane acts as an artificial filter.

• The blood is passed through a machine where it meets the selective membrane. Here, waste products and excess ions pass through, while vital blood components remain.
• This not only purifies the blood, improving health and wellness, but also mimics the natural functions of the kidneys, making it a life-saving procedure for many.

Blood purification through dialysis is vital for maintaining the body's balance of fluids and electrolytes, essential for overall health.