The most common element on our planetis oxygen: in water it is 89%, in air about 21%, in the human body - 65%. It is synthesized artificially and is widely used in medicine for the treatment of various forms of oxygen starvation, as well as poisoning with bertholete salt, nitrites, CO (displaces carbon monoxide from its bio-compounds with hemoglobin of the blood). Oxygen therapy is also indicated for large blood loss, tuberculosis, superficial breathing, pulmonary edema, prolonged exposure to thin air, and so on.
Каков же состав кислорода?Its molecule (O2) consists of two atoms linked together by a covalent bond. To date, many laboratory methods for the synthesis of this gas are known. Innovative technologies make it possible to produce it on an industrial scale. The main raw material for the industrial synthesis of oxygen is water and air. To obtain O2 from the air, it is first liquefied under high pressure and rapid cooling, followed by rectification in distillation columns in which the air is repeatedly evaporated and condensed. This method allows obtaining oxygen with an admixture of inert gases (xenon, krypton) and nitrogen (about 1.5%). When using the electrolytic method, O2 is obtained from water without the above impurities of gases.
Properties of oxygen
O2 - gas, which has no taste, no smell, goodSupports combustion, but does not burn itself. This substance reacts with practically any elements, except for inert gases. Oxygen is perfectly soluble in water and 95-degree ethanol.
Authenticity test
To identify O2, the gas must be collected intest tube and bring it to smoldering luchinku. In the presence of oxygen, the ray will flash and will burn with a bright flame. How to differentiate oxygen from nitrous oxide? Its impurities together with O2 form oxides of nitrogen, which are released as orange smoke.
Mechanism of action and application of oxygen
If there is a deficit of this gas in the body,oxygen starvation. Due to this pathology, the functional activity of the nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular systems is disrupted, dyspnea, cyanosis, lowering blood pressure, and asphyxia occur. With the introduction of oxygen into the body, the listed phenomena disappear.
The use of oxygen in a mixture with CO2. The methods of its introduction into the body
Several methods for introducing oxygen intoorganism: by inhalation through the nose (with the help of a catheter), through the mouth (inhalation through the mouthpiece from the pillow), under the skin. Subcutaneous injection is practiced, for example, in the treatment of elephantiasis, gangrene, trophic ulcers. Widely used and so-called oxygen cocktails - oxygenated drinks in the form of foam. This use of oxygen is recommended for the treatment of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Prolonged inhalation of pure O2 has an irritant effect on the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.
In medical practice is often usedmixture of oxygen with CO2 - carbon dioxide, which exerts a stimulating effect on the respiratory center. Today, various mixtures of oxygen with CO2 are used (most often with a carbon dioxide content of up to 10 percent). To such drugs can be attributed carbogen (not to be confused with carboline - activated carbon). It is stored in special cylinders under pressure. The use of oxygen in a mixture with carboline is indicated in the treatment of glaucoma, as well as in carbon monoxide poisoning.
Ways of storing oxygen
Oxygen is stored in special seamlessSteel cylinders that are painted in blue. This container is manufactured only at specialized factories and enterprises. It should be remembered that in order to avoid a fire or explosion, it is forbidden to lubricate the cranes, as well as the cutting of oxygen cylinders, with oils.
