saline
Definition
Saline is a solution of salt in water. The salt in saline is usually sodium chloride, but other salts can also be used. The concentration of salt in saline can vary, but it is typically around 0.9%.
Saline is used in a variety of applications, including:
- Medical: Saline is used in intravenous (IV) fluids to help keep the body hydrated. It is also used to flush out the eyes and to clean wounds.
- Industry: Saline is used in food processing to prevent bacteria growth. It is also used in the production of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
- Research: Saline is used in scientific research to study the effects of salt on cells and tissues.
Saline is a safe and effective solution for a variety of purposes. It is non-toxic and it does not damage tissues. Saline is also relatively inexpensive, which makes it a cost-effective choice for many applications.
How can the word be used?
The saline solution was used to flush the wound.
Different forms of the word
Adjective:
- of, containing, or resembling salt.
- having a salty taste.
Noun:
- a salt lake or marsh.
- a solution of salt in water.
Etymology
The word "saline" comes from the Latin word "salinus", which means "salty".
The first recorded use of the word "saline" in English was in the 14th century.
The word "saline" is a Latin word, and it is related to the Italian word "salino" and the Spanish word "salino".
Question
What does saline mean?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the concept of salinity in ocean water and its impact on marine ecosystems, including adaptations of organisms to varying levels of salinity.
Answer:
Salinity refers to the concentration of dissolved salts, mainly sodium chloride (table salt), in ocean water. It is typically measured in parts per thousand (ppt) and can vary due to factors like evaporation, precipitation, and freshwater inflow from rivers. Salinity plays a crucial role in shaping marine ecosystems and influencing the distribution of marine life.
The level of salinity in seawater affects the physical properties of water, such as density and buoyancy, which in turn impact ocean currents and circulation patterns. Organisms in marine ecosystems have evolved various adaptations to cope with different salinity levels. For instance, marine animals in estuaries, where freshwater from rivers mixes with seawater, exhibit osmoregulatory mechanisms to maintain internal salt concentrations.
Some marine organisms are euryhaline, able to tolerate a wide range of salinities, while others are stenohaline, restricted to specific salinity conditions. Mangroves, for example, thrive in brackish waters of estuaries, displaying specialised root structures that help them cope with changing salinity levels.
In conclusion, salinity is a crucial factor in ocean water, influencing physical properties and shaping marine ecosystems. Organisms have evolved diverse adaptations to survive in varying salinity conditions, highlighting the intricate interplay between aquatic environments and the life they support.