The Concentration Volume Calculator determines the relationship between the concentration and volume of solutions during dilution or concentration adjustments. It is particularly useful for laboratory experiments, pharmaceutical preparations, and industrial processes where precise solution formulations are critical. The calculator leverages the dilution equation to calculate unknown parameters, making it easy to scale up or down solutions accurately.
Formula of Concentration Volume Calculator
The calculation follows the dilution equation:
C₁ × V₁ = C₂ × V₂
Variables:
- C₁: Initial concentration of the solution (e.g., molarity or percentage).
- V₁: Volume of the stock solution required (liters, milliliters, etc.).
- C₂: Final concentration of the solution (e.g., molarity or percentage).
- V₂: Final volume of the solution (liters, milliliters, etc.).
Steps to Calculate
- Rearrange the Formula to Solve for the Unknown:
- To find the required volume of the stock solution (V₁):
V₁ = (C₂ × V₂) / C₁ - To find the final volume required (V₂) to dilute the stock:
V₂ = (C₁ × V₁) / C₂
- To find the required volume of the stock solution (V₁):
- Determine the Input Parameters:
- C₁: The concentration of the stock solution (e.g., initial molarity or percentage).
- C₂: The desired concentration of the diluted solution.
- V₂ or V₁: The known volume of the final solution or stock solution.
- Substitute the Known Values:
- Perform the calculation to find the required volume.
Pre-calculated Table for Common Scenarios
Below is a table for quick reference, showing typical stock and final solution concentrations and their required volumes:
| Stock Concentration (C₁) | Final Concentration (C₂) | Final Volume (V₂) | Required Volume of Stock (V₁) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 M | 1 M | 100 mL | 10 mL |
| 5% | 0.5% | 200 mL | 20 mL |
| 20 M | 2 M | 500 mL | 50 mL |
| 15% | 5% | 300 mL | 100 mL |
Example of Concentration Volume Calculator
Scenario
You have a stock solution of 10 M HCl and need to prepare 250 mL of a 1 M HCl solution. Calculate the volume of the stock solution required.
Step-by-Step Calculation
- List the Known Values:
- Stock concentration (C₁) = 10 M.
- Final concentration (C₂) = 1 M.
- Final volume (V₂) = 250 mL = 0.25 L.
- Apply the Formula:
V₁ = (C₂ × V₂) / C₁ - Substitute the Values:
V₁ = (1 × 0.25) / 10 - Solve:
V₁ = 0.025 L = 25 mL.
To prepare the solution, you need 25 mL of the stock solution.
Most Common FAQs
It ensures accurate solution preparation, minimizing errors in dilution or concentration adjustments, which is crucial for consistent experimental results.
Yes, as long as the same units are used for both stock and final concentrations.
Ensure all volumes are in the same units and that concentrations are compatible (e.g., both in molarity or percentage).