Solution dilution is the process of reducing the concentration of a solute in a solution by adding more solvent. This technique is commonly used in chemistry and biology to prepare solutions of desired concentrations from a more concentrated stock solution.
Formula
The formula for solution dilution is:
\[ C_1V_1 = C_2V_2 \]
Where:
\(C_1\) is the initial concentration
\(V_1\) is the initial volume
\(C_2\) is the final concentration
\(V_2\) is the final volume
Calculation Steps
Let's calculate the final concentration when diluting a solution:
Initial concentration (\(C_1\)) = 5 M
Initial volume (\(V_1\)) = 100 mL
Final volume (\(V_2\)) = 500 mL
Apply the dilution formula:
\[ C_1V_1 = C_2V_2 \]
Rearrange to solve for \(C_2\):
\[ C_2 = \frac{C_1V_1}{V_2} \]
Substitute the known values:
\[ C_2 = \frac{5 \text{ M} \times 100 \text{ mL}}{500 \text{ mL}} \]
Calculate the result:
\[ C_2 = 1 \text{ M} \]
Example and Visual Representation
Let's visualize the dilution process:
This visual representation shows:
The initial solution with higher concentration and smaller volume
The final solution with lower concentration and larger volume
The dilution process, where solvent is added to decrease concentration
The conservation of the amount of solute, as represented by the equation C₁V₁ = C₂V₂
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