1. What is Bitterness Value?

Definition: The Bitterness Value of a drug is determined by comparing the threshold bitter concentration of an extract of the material with that of dilute solution of quinine hydrochloride.

Purpose: It helps in quantifying and standardizing the bitterness of pharmaceutical compounds and herbal extracts.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( BV \) — Bitterness Value (kg/m³)
• \( C \) — Concentration of HCl (mol/m³)
• \( A \) — Concentration of Stock Solution (mol/m³)
• \( B \) — Volume of Sample (m³)

Explanation: The formula compares the threshold bitter concentration of the test sample with that of a standard quinine hydrochloride solution.

3. Importance of Bitterness Value Calculation

Details: Accurate bitterness measurement is crucial in pharmaceutical formulation to ensure proper taste masking and patient compliance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the concentration of HCl, concentration of stock solution, and volume of sample. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of the 2000 factor in the formula?
A: The factor 2000 represents the standard concentration of quinine hydrochloride solution used as a reference.

Q2: What are typical units for bitterness value?
A: Bitterness value is typically expressed in kg/m³, representing the equivalent concentration of quinine hydrochloride.

Q3: How is the threshold bitter concentration determined?
A: It's determined by a panel of tasters who identify the minimum concentration at which bitterness is detectable.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for food products?
A: While primarily for pharmaceuticals, the same principle can be adapted for food bitterness evaluation.

Q5: What's a typical bitterness value range?
A: Values vary widely, but higher numbers indicate more bitter substances. Quinine hydrochloride has a defined bitterness value of 2000.