Weighing and preparing solutions of different strengths (concentrations) and performing dilutions
are fundamental tasks in both laboratory and industrial settings. Here’s a guide on how to handle
these processes:
1. Weighing Solids to Prepare Solutions
To prepare a solution of a specific concentration (e.g., molarity, weight/volume), you first need to
weigh the solid solute accurately. Here's how:
a. Choose the Appropriate Balance:
For small quantities (mg or g range), use an analytical balance, which has high precision.
For larger quantities (g or kg range), a top-loading balance may suffice.
b. Calculate the Amount of Solute Needed:
Use the formula for molarity or weight/volume concentration to determine how much solute you
need. Common equations are:
For Molarity (M):
n
M=
V
Where:
M = Molarity (mol/L)
n = Number of moles of solute
V = Volume of solution (L)
To calculate moles from mass:
m
n=
Mmolar
Where:
m = mass of solute (g)
Mmolar = Molar mass of the solute (g/mol)
Then, rearranging for mass m:
m = M × V × Mmolar
For Weight/Volume Percent (w/v):
mass of solute (g)
w/v (%) = × 100
volume of solution (mL)
You can rearrange to solve for the mass of solute needed:
volume (mL)
mass of solute (g) = w/v (%) ×
100
c. Weigh the Solute:
Once you’ve calculated the mass of solute needed, weigh it on the balance. Always ensure to tare
the container before weighing, and use a clean, dry vessel.
2. Dissolving the Solute
After weighing the solute:
Transfer it into a container (usually a volumetric flask if preparing a specific volume solution).
Add a small amount of solvent (e.g., distilled water) to dissolve the solute.
Stir the mixture with a glass rod or shake the flask until the solute is fully dissolved.
If preparing a final volume of, say, 1 L, add solvent until the bottom of the meniscus is exactly
at the calibration mark of the volumetric flask.
3. Preparing Solutions of Different Strengths (Dilutions)
To prepare solutions of different strengths from a stock solution, dilution is performed. The
relationship for dilution is given by:
C 1 × V1 = C 2 × V2
Where:
C1 = Initial concentration (stock solution)
V1 = Volume of the stock solution you need to use
C2 = Final concentration (desired solution strength)
V2 = Final volume of the diluted solution
a. Steps for Dilution:
1. Determine the amount of stock solution needed: Rearranging the dilution equation to solve
for V1 :
C 2 × V2
V1 =
C1
2. Measure the appropriate volume of the stock solution: Use a pipette or burette to measure
the volume of the concentrated solution.
3. Add solvent to achieve the final volume: Transfer the measured volume of stock solution into
a volumetric flask or a container, and then add solvent until the desired final volume is
reached.
4. Mix thoroughly: Stir or shake the container to ensure uniform mixing of the solution.
4. Example of Solution Preparation and Dilution
Example 1: Preparing a 1 M NaCl Solution
You want to prepare 500 mL of a 1 M sodium chloride (NaCl) solution.
Molar mass of NaCl = 58.44 g/mol
Amount of NaCl needed:
m = M × V × Mmolar = 1 mol/L × 0.5 L × 58.44 g/mol = 29.22 g
Weigh 29.22 g of NaCl and dissolve it in a small volume of water. Then transfer it to a 500
mL volumetric flask and fill it to the mark with water.
Example 2: Diluting a Stock Solution of HCl
You have a 6 M stock solution of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and need to prepare 200 mL of a 1 M
solution.
Using the dilution formula:
C 2 × V2 1 M × 200 mL
V1 = = = 33.33 mL
C1 6M
Take 33.33 mL of the 6 M HCl stock solution and dilute it with distilled water up to 200 mL.
5. Important Tips for Accurate Solution Preparation and Dilution:
Use proper equipment: For accurate measurements, use the appropriate volumetric flasks,
pipettes, and balances.
Ensure complete dissolution: Stir or shake the solution thoroughly to ensure the solute is
completely dissolved before adjusting the volume.
Check the final volume carefully: When preparing a solution with a specific volume, it’s crucial
to stop adding solvent when the bottom of the meniscus reaches the calibration mark on a
volumetric flask.
Label the solutions: Always label the containers with the concentration, date, and any relevant
information.
Do you need help with a specific example of preparing or diluting a solution?
