1. What is Dilution Factor?

The Dilution Factor (DF) is a ratio that describes how much a solution has been diluted. It represents the factor by which the original concentration is reduced to reach the final concentration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the dilution factor formula:

Where:

• \( C_1 \) — Initial concentration (M)
• \( C_2 \) — Final concentration (M)
• \( DF \) — Dilution factor (unitless)

Explanation: The equation calculates how many times more concentrated the original solution is compared to the diluted solution.

3. Importance of Dilution Factor

Details: Dilution factor is crucial in laboratory work, pharmaceutical preparations, and chemical analysis to ensure accurate and reproducible results when working with solutions of different concentrations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both concentrations in molarity (M). The initial concentration must be greater than the final concentration. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if my final concentration is higher than initial?
A: This would mean concentration rather than dilution. The calculator requires C₁ > C₂ for dilution factor calculation.

Q2: Can I use different concentration units?
A: Yes, as long as both concentrations use the same units. The calculator assumes molarity (M) but the formula works with any concentration unit.

Q3: How is dilution factor related to dilution ratio?
A: Dilution ratio (e.g., 1:10) is related but different. A 1:10 ratio means 1 part solution + 9 parts diluent (DF=10).

Q4: What's the difference between DF and fold dilution?
A: They are essentially the same - a DF of 10 means a 10-fold dilution.

Q5: How do I prepare a dilution based on DF?
A: To make a specific volume (V₂) of diluted solution, use volume of stock solution (V₁) = V₂/DF, then add diluent to reach V₂.