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Dilution Factor Formula:
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The Dilution Factor (DF) is a dimensionless number that represents the ratio of the final volume to the initial volume in a dilution process. It indicates how many times a solution has been diluted.
The calculator uses the dilution factor formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how many times the original solution has been diluted by comparing the final volume to the initial volume.
Details: Accurate dilution factor calculation is crucial in laboratory settings for preparing solutions of desired concentrations, in pharmaceutical preparations, and in various chemical and biological experiments.
Tips: Enter both final and initial volumes in liters. All values must be valid (volumes > 0). The calculator will compute the dilution factor as a dimensionless value.
Q1: What does a dilution factor of 1 mean?
A: A dilution factor of 1 means no dilution occurred - the final volume equals the initial volume.
Q2: How is dilution factor related to concentration?
A: The dilution factor is inversely related to concentration. A higher dilution factor means a more diluted solution with lower concentration.
Q3: Can dilution factor be less than 1?
A: No, dilution factor cannot be less than 1 as it represents the ratio of final to initial volume, and final volume should always be equal to or greater than initial volume in a dilution.
Q4: What's the difference between dilution factor and dilution ratio?
A: Dilution factor is a single number (V_f/V_i), while dilution ratio is typically expressed as a ratio (e.g., 1:10 meaning 1 part sample to 9 parts diluent).
Q5: How do I calculate the concentration after dilution using the dilution factor?
A: Final concentration = Initial concentration / Dilution Factor. The dilution factor tells you how many times the original solution was diluted.