Theme 4 - Calculating Dilution Factors

Question 1

What is a dilution?

Answer 1

When additional solvent is added to a solution to decrease the concentration of the solute

The amount of solute remains constant; only concentration changes.

Question 2

What remains constant during a dilution?

Answer 2

Amount of solute

Only the concentration changes.

Question 3

How can many working solutions be made?

Answer 3

From a single concentrated stock solution

The amount of solute remains the same, keeping the ratio between concentration and volume unchanged.

Question 4

What formula is used to work out the final concentration after dilution?

Answer 4

C₁ V₁ = C₂ V₂

C = Concentration, V = Volume.

Question 5

How is the dilution factor calculated?

Answer 5

Dilution Factor = V₂ / V₁

Both volumes should remain at the same units.

Question 6

What is a serial dilution?

Answer 6

Multiple serial dilutions to make large dilutions

Each step involves a dilution factor.

Question 7

How do you calculate the overall dilution factor in serial dilutions?

Answer 7

Dilution Factor = Multiplying factors of each dilution

This helps in determining the final concentration.

Question 8

What is the formula for final concentration in serial dilutions?

Answer 8

Final Concentration = Initial Concentration / Dilution Factor

This shows how the concentration changes with dilution.