1. What is 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. It indicates how much a solution has been diluted.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the dilution factor formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The dilution factor is simply the ratio of the total final volume to the volume of the original solution used in the dilution.

3. Importance of Dilution Factor

Details: The dilution factor is crucial in laboratory settings for preparing solutions of desired concentrations, in medical testing for sample preparation, and in various industrial processes where precise dilutions are required.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both volumes in milliliters (mL). Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the ratio of final volume to initial volume.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a DF of 10 mean?
A: A DF of 10 means the original solution was diluted 10-fold (1 part original solution + 9 parts diluent).

Q2: How is DF different from dilution ratio?
A: Dilution factor is the total volume divided by initial volume, while dilution ratio expresses the parts of solute to parts of solvent (e.g., 1:9 for a 10-fold dilution).

Q3: Can DF be less than 1?
A: No, since final volume must be greater than or equal to initial volume, DF should always be ≥1.

Q4: How do I use DF to calculate concentration?
A: Final concentration = Initial concentration / DF.

Q5: What if I know the DF and need to make a specific volume?
A: Volume of stock needed = Final desired volume / DF.