What it means
In body fluids, the solutes include electrolytes such as sodium, glucose and proteins, and the liquid they dissolve in (the solvent) is water. The amount of solute decides a fluid's osmolarityoz-moh-LAIR-ih-teeThe amount of dissolved particles in a set volume of fluid, which decides which way water moves.Full entry and which way water moves between compartments.
At a glance
| Spanish | soluto |
|---|---|
| Also written | solutes |
Related terms
electrolyte
A mineral that carries an electric charge when dissolved in body fluids, such as sodium, potassium, calcium and chloride.
osmolarity
The amount of dissolved particles in a set volume of fluid, which decides which way water moves.
serum osmolality
A blood test that measures how concentrated the blood is, by the amount of dissolved particles in it.