Chemistry Formula
Solution Dilution Formula
Relates concentration and volume before and after dilution.
Formula Summary
Solution Dilution
Relates concentration and volume before and after dilution.
- Category
- Chemistry
- Equation
- C₁V₁ = C₂V₂
- Calculator
- Use Solution Dilution Calculator →
Equation
C₁V₁ = C₂V₂
Variables
- C = concentration
- V = volume
- 1 = initial
- 2 = final
How to Use This Formula
- Identify the known values from the problem statement.
- Convert all values into compatible units.
- Substitute the values into the equation and calculate the result.
- Check that the final answer has the correct unit and meaning.
Explanation
The dilution formula describes how the concentration of a solution changes when more solvent is added. The amount of dissolved solute remains constant while the solution volume increases.
Worked Example
If 100 mL of a 2 M solution is diluted to 500 mL, the final concentration is (2 × 100) ÷ 500 = 0.4 M.
Common Mistakes
- Mixing initial and final concentration values.
- Using inconsistent volume units.
- Assuming the amount of solute changes during dilution.
Applications
- Preparing laboratory solutions.
- Creating standard chemical concentrations.
- Analytical chemistry experiments.
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