Fluoride Ions needed to treat water

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the amount of sodium fluoride required to treat a 750-gallon water reservoir for fluoride ion concentration. The correct conversion from gallons to liters is crucial, as 1 gallon equals approximately 3.78541 liters, not 283,905,884 liters. The correct calculation reveals that to achieve a concentration of 1 mg of fluoride ion per liter, approximately 0.284 kg of sodium fluoride is needed for the entire reservoir. The initial miscalculation of 284 kg stemmed from an incorrect conversion factor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of unit conversions (gallons to liters)
  • Basic knowledge of chemical concentrations (mg/L)
  • Familiarity with sodium fluoride properties and applications
  • Ability to perform basic arithmetic calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the health effects of fluoride ions in drinking water
  • Learn about the chemical properties of sodium fluoride
  • Study water treatment methods and regulations regarding fluoride levels
  • Explore the implications of fluoride concentration on dental health
USEFUL FOR

Environmental scientists, water treatment professionals, public health officials, and anyone involved in water quality management will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement


Fluoride ion is poisonous in relatively low amounts: 0.2 g of F - per 70 kg body weight can cause death. Nevertheless, in order to prevent tooth decay, F - ions are added to drinking water at a concentration of 1 mg of F - ion per L of water. How many kilograms of sodium fluoride is needed to treat a 7.50 x 10^2 gallon reservoir?


Homework Equations


1mg = 1.0 x 10^-6kg
1 gal = 283,905,884 liters


The Attempt at a Solution


I did 7.50 x 10^2 gallons and converted it to liters. Knowing how many liters is in the reservoir and knowing it takes 1.0 x 10^-6 kg to treat 1 liter of water, I got my answer as 284 kg. Anyone know what I did wrong? I'm fairly confident the answer is 284 kg.
 
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MellowOne said:
1 gal = 283,905,884 liters

Doesn't look OK.

--
 
I figured it out, I forgot a step and yeah I just looked at it again and realized I put the wrong conversion.
 

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