Question

Which of the following factors does not limit the rate of dialysis?

(a) Dialysis membrane relative surface area

(b) Retentate volume to diffusate volume

(c) Type of substance

(d) Diffusible substance concentration outside the membrane

This question was addressed to me at a job interview.

My doubt stems from Enzymes Purification in section Enzymes Purification of Enzyme Technology

Answer 1

Right choice is (c) Type of substance

The explanation: The rate limiting factors for dialysis are as follows:

(i) Relative surface area of the membrane available for dialysis

(ii) The volume of the solution being dialyzed inside (retentate) to that of the solution outside (diffusate)

(iii) Concentration of diffusible substances outside the membrane.

The type of substance being dialyzed has no effect on rate of dialysis.