1. What is Dilution Factor?

The dilution factor (DF) is a ratio that describes how much a solution has been diluted. It represents the ratio of the final volume to the initial volume of the solution.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the dilution factor formula:

Where:

• \( DF \) — Dilution factor (unitless)
• \( V_2 \) — Final volume after dilution (mL)
• \( V_1 \) — Initial volume before dilution (mL)

Explanation: The formula calculates how many times the original solution has been diluted by comparing the final volume to the initial volume.

3. Importance of Dilution Factor

Details: Dilution factor is crucial in laboratory work, pharmaceutical preparations, and chemical analysis. It helps determine the concentration of solutions after dilution and is essential for accurate experimental results.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both volumes in milliliters (mL). Ensure both values are positive numbers, with the final volume (V₂) greater than the initial volume (V₁) for proper dilution.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a dilution factor of 10 mean?
A: A DF of 10 means the original solution was diluted 10 times (e.g., 1 mL solution + 9 mL diluent = 10 mL total).

Q2: Can dilution factor be less than 1?
A: No, proper dilution always results in DF ≥ 1. A DF < 1 would imply concentration rather than dilution.

Q3: How is dilution factor related to concentration?
A: The concentration after dilution is the original concentration divided by the dilution factor.

Q4: What's the difference between dilution factor and dilution ratio?
A: Dilution factor is total volume/initial volume, while dilution ratio is typically expressed as initial:final (e.g., 1:10).

Q5: How do I prepare a solution with a specific dilution factor?
A: Subtract the initial volume from the final volume to determine how much diluent to add (V_diluent = V₂ - V₁).