How to Calculate the Total Mass of Sodium Chloride in Seawater?

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SUMMARY

The total mass of sodium chloride in seawater can be calculated using the volume of seawater, its density, and the mass percentage of sodium chloride. Given a total volume of 1.5 x 1021 L and a sodium chloride concentration of 3.1% by mass, the mass of seawater is first determined using the density of 1.03 g/mL. The correct calculation yields approximately 61,324.93 kg of sodium chloride, which converts to about 67.5 tons.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of density and its units (g/mL, kg/L)
  • Basic knowledge of mass percentage calculations
  • Familiarity with unit conversions (e.g., kg to g, L to mL)
  • Proficiency in algebraic manipulation of equations
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  • Review the concept of density and its applications in fluid mechanics
  • Study mass percentage calculations in chemistry
  • Learn about unit conversion techniques for mass and volume
  • Explore practical applications of sodium chloride in environmental science
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Students in chemistry or environmental science, educators teaching about seawater composition, and anyone involved in marine studies or chemical calculations.

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Homework Statement



The total volume of seawater is 1.5 10^21 L. Assume that seawater contains 3.1 percent sodium chloride by mass and that its density is 1.03 g/mL. Calculate the total mass of sodium chloride in kilograms and in tons. (1 ton = 2000 lb; 1 lb = 453.6 g)

Homework Equations



D=m/v
m=d x v


The Attempt at a Solution



1.5 x 10^21 x .031= 61324931.65 g/L

61324931.65x .001=61324.93165kg ?
 
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You want mass of seawater first. Use the density of seawater and the volume of seawater to obtain the mass of seawater.

The first step which YOU showed gives the wrong units. Look at the units involved there: Liters x mass/mass
 
Hi
Your method is right .Only one conversion is wrong 1Kg = 1000g
1L = 1000ml
density =1.03 g/mL = 1.03 Kg /L
you can use it straight here
 
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