What is mEq/L and ppm?
- mEq/L (milliequivalents per liter) measures the amount of sodium ions based on their chemical charge.
- ppm (parts per million) or mg/L measures the weight of sodium in a liter of water.
Why convert?
Farmers often test water or soil for sodium content. Some test results give sodium in mEq/L, but fertilizers, guidelines, or other references might use ppm. So, converting helps compare and understand the sodium level correctly.
How to Convert Sodium mEq/L to ppm?
- Understand the basic formula:
Sodium (ppm)=Sodium (mEq/L)×Equivalent weight of Sodium (mg/mEq)
- Find the equivalent weight of Sodium:
- Sodium (Na) atomic weight = 23 g/mol
- Sodium ion charge = +1
- Equivalent weight = Atomic weight ÷ charge = 23 ÷ 1 = 23 mg/mEq
- Final formula:
Sodium (ppm)=Sodium (mEq/L)×23
Example:
If your water sample has 5 mEq/L of Sodium, then:
Sodium (ppm)=5×23=115 ppm
How to use a calculator:
- Enter the sodium value in mEq/L.
- Multiply by 23.
- The result is the sodium concentration in ppm (mg/L).
Summary Table
| Sodium (mEq/L) | Sodium (ppm) = mEq/L × 23 |
|---|---|
| 1 | 23 |
| 2 | 46 |
| 5 | 115 |
| 10 | 230 |
You can find more agriculture conversion calculators here.
