Revista de Ciencias Químicas

Temperature Effects on Conductivity of Seawater and Physiologic Saline, Mechanism and Significance

Abstract

Richard Sauerheber and Bettina Heinz

The conductivity of sea water and of 0.9% physiologic saline was examined as a function of temperature over a broad range. By inserting multimeter probes into samples prior to quick freezing, accurate resistance measurements were obtained even for the solid solutions at temperature below freezing. Data are also analyzed that suggest charge separation and charge density must be optimal for maximum conductivity of aqueous salt solutions. Ion mobility is not a requirement for conductivity. The data suggest a mechanism for electron transfer through salt solutions. The importance of saline and seawater differences is discussed.