1. What is the Dilution Factor?

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 much a solution has been diluted.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the dilution factor equation:

Where:

• \( DF \) — Dilution factor (dimensionless)
• \( V_f \) — Final volume after dilution (mL)
• \( V_i \) — Initial volume before dilution (mL)

Explanation: The equation calculates how many times the original solution has been diluted by comparing the final and initial volumes.

3. Importance of Dilution Factor

Details: The dilution factor is crucial in laboratory work for preparing solutions of desired concentrations, cell culture work, and various biological assays where precise dilutions are required.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both final and initial volumes in milliliters (mL). Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the dilution factor.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a DF of 10 mean?
A: A DF of 10 means the original solution has been diluted 10 times (1 part original solution mixed with 9 parts diluent).

Q2: How is DF related to concentration?
A: The concentration after dilution is the original concentration divided by the DF. For example, DF of 5 means concentration is 1/5th of original.

Q3: Can DF be less than 1?
A: No, since Vf must be greater than Vi in a dilution, DF is always ≥1. Values <1 would indicate concentration, not dilution.

Q4: What's the difference between DF and dilution ratio?
A: DF is total volume/initial volume, while dilution ratio is initial volume:total volume. They are reciprocals of each other.

Q5: How do I prepare a dilution with a specific DF?
A: To achieve a certain DF, add (DF×Vi - Vi) of diluent to Vi volume of original solution. For DF=5, add 4 parts diluent to 1 part solution.