Preparing Solutions by Dilution

Solutions are often prepared by diluting a more concentrated stock solution. A known volume of the stock solution is transferred to a new container and brought to a new volume. Since the total amount of solute is the same before and after dilution, we know that

where C_o is the stock solution’s concentration, V_o is the volume of stock solution being diluted, C_d is the dilute solution’s concentration, and V_d is the volume of the dilute solution. Again, the type of glassware used to measure Vo and Vd depends on how exact the solution’s concentration must be known.

Example