How to Calculate Volume of Stock Solution for Dilution in Chemistry Experiment

What is the formula to calculate the volume of stock solution needed for dilution in a chemistry experiment?

The formula to calculate the volume of stock solution needed for dilution in a chemistry experiment is M1V1 = M2V2, where M1 is the initial molarity, V1 is the initial volume, M2 is the final molarity, and V2 is the final volume.

When conducting chemistry experiments, it is often necessary to dilute solutions to a specific concentration. In the given scenario, students in a school's laboratory required 50.0 mL of 2.50 M H2SO4 for an experiment. However, the only available stock solution of the acid had a concentration of 18.0 M.

To determine the volume of stock solution needed to make the required solution, the dilution formula M1V1 = M2V2 is utilized. By substituting the given values:

Initial molarity (M1) = 2.50 M

Initial volume (V1) = 50.0 mL (0.05 L)

Final molarity (M2) = 18.0 M

Final volume (V2) = ?

By rearranging the formula and solving for V2, the volume of the stock solution required is calculated to be approximately 6.94 mL.

Therefore, the formula and calculation method used in this scenario can be applied to various dilution problems in chemistry experiments, allowing for precise and accurate preparation of solutions.