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Dilution Factor Formula:
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The Dilution Factor (DF) is a dimensionless quantity that represents the ratio of the total mass after dilution to the initial mass before dilution. It indicates how much a solution has been diluted and is commonly used in chemistry, biology, and various laboratory applications.
The calculator uses the dilution factor formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the factor by which the original solution has been diluted by adding a specific mass of diluent.
Details: Accurate dilution factor calculation is crucial for preparing solutions with precise concentrations, ensuring experimental reproducibility, and maintaining consistency in laboratory procedures and industrial processes.
Tips: Enter the initial mass and diluent mass in grams. Both values must be positive numbers, with initial mass greater than zero.
Q1: What does a dilution factor of 1 mean?
A: A dilution factor of 1 means no dilution has occurred (m_d = 0). The solution remains at its original concentration.
Q2: How is dilution factor related to concentration?
A: The final concentration equals the initial concentration divided by the dilution factor. A higher DF indicates greater dilution and lower final concentration.
Q3: Can dilution factor be less than 1?
A: No, dilution factor cannot be less than 1 since it represents the ratio of total mass to initial mass, which is always ≥1 when m_d ≥0.
Q4: What's the difference between dilution factor and dilution ratio?
A: Dilution factor is a single number (e.g., 10), while dilution ratio is typically expressed as a ratio (e.g., 1:10). DF = 11 corresponds to a 1:10 dilution ratio.
Q5: When should mass-based dilution be used instead of volume-based?
A: Mass-based dilution is preferred when dealing with temperature-sensitive solutions, when high precision is required, or when working with substances whose density changes with concentration.