1.4. Units and Nomenclature of KOC

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does KOC stand for?

   Hint

   Think about what the K represents.

2. 2.

   How are KOC values typically expressed?

   Hint

   Consider the units of measurement associated with concentration.

3. 3.

   What does KOC indicate?

   • A measure of solubility in water
   • A coefficient indicating the partitioning of a chemical between organic carbon and water
   • The concentration of a chemical in the air

   Hint

   Look for the term that relates to two phases.

4. 4.

   True or False: KOC values are unaffected by the source of organic carbon.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how different origins of materials might influence their properties.

5. 5.

   A chemical has a KOC value of 10,000. If the concentration of this chemical in the water is 1 mg/L, what would the concentration of the chemical likely be in organic carbon?

   Hint

   Use the definition of KOC to rearrange the equation.

6. 6.

   Compare the implications of a chemical with a KOC of 2000 versus one with a KOC of 500 in an environmental cleanup scenario. Which one poses greater risks for bioaccumulation and why?

   Hint

   Evaluate how KOC values relate to chemical behavior in the environment.