Dilution
Definition
The process of reducing a solution's concentration by adding more solvent. Governed by C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ (concentration × volume before = after).
Why is Dilution Important?
Dilution is an essential chemistry concept used in laboratories, pharmaceutical development, environmental science, and industrial processes. Understanding this concept is critical for accurate chemical calculations, safe laboratory practices, and optimizing reactions.
Our chemistry calculators provide instant, accurate results for complex conversions and calculations, making lab work more efficient and reducing the risk of errors in critical measurements.
What is Dilution?
Dilution is the process of reducing the concentration of a solution by adding more solvent (usually water). The total amount of solute remains the same — only the concentration changes.
The Dilution Equation
C₁V₁ = C₂V₂
Where C₁ = initial concentration, V₁ = initial volume, C₂ = final concentration, V₂ = final volume.
Dilution Examples
| Problem | Given | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dilute 6M HCl to make 500 mL of 1M HCl | C₁=6M, C₂=1M, V₂=500mL | V₁ = (1×500)/6 = 83.3 mL |
| What concentration if 50 mL of 4M NaOH is diluted to 200 mL? | C₁=4M, V₁=50mL, V₂=200mL | C₂ = (4×50)/200 = 1M |
| Dilute bleach 1:10 for cleaning (from 5.25%) | Ratio 1:10 | Mix 1 part bleach + 9 parts water = 0.525% |
Serial Dilution
A common laboratory technique where each dilution is performed from the previous one. A 1:10 serial dilution performed 3 times gives 1:10, 1:100, and 1:1000 concentrations. Used extensively in microbiology, immunology, and analytical chemistry.