Dilution is a fundamental technique in chemistry used when a less concentrated solution is needed from a more concentrated one. This process involves adding more solvent to decrease the solute concentration to a certain level without altering the solute's total amount. The key formula used in dilution calculations is:\[ M_1V_1 = M_2V_2 \]where:
- \( M_1 \) and \( V_1 \) are the molarity and volume of the concentrated solution, respectively.
- \( M_2 \) and \( V_2 \) are the molarity and volume of the diluted solution.
In the exercise, dilution is applied to prepare solutions from stock solutions:
- For instance, a 0.250 M NaOH solution is prepared by diluting a 1.00 M stock solution. The calculation shows that 0.50 L of the stock solution is needed.
- Similarly, a 0.100 M \( K_2CrO_4 \) solution is obtained by diluting a 1.75 M stock solution, which requires 0.114 L of the original concentrated solution.
By carefully measuring and adding the diluent (often water), the desired solution concentration is achieved, making dilution a practical method in laboratory settings.