All of the following are true of barium sulfate as a contrast agent EXCEPT
A)when mixed with water,it dissolves completely.
B)its atomic number (Z)is 56.
C)it is chemically inert.
D)to prevent flocculation,barium sulfate is often mixed with water and sodium citrate.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The element barium has an atomic number of 56 and is radiopaque.Because barium sulfate is not soluble in water,it must be mixed or shaken into a suspension in water.In an acid environment,barium has a tendency to clump and come out of suspension,a process called flocculation.Stabilizing agents such as sodium carbonate or sodium citrate are usually used to prevent flocculation.

All of the Following Are True of Barium Sulfate as a Contrast