Dilution Factor Formula:
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Dilution Factor (DF) is a dimensionless number that represents the ratio of the initial concentration to the final concentration of a solution after dilution. It indicates how many times a solution has been diluted.
The calculator uses the dilution factor formula:
Where:
Explanation: The dilution factor is calculated by dividing the initial concentration by the final concentration. A DF of 100 means the solution has been diluted 100 times.
Details: Accurate dilution calculations are essential in laboratory work, pharmaceutical preparations, chemical analysis, and various scientific experiments where precise concentrations are required.
Tips: Enter both initial and final concentrations in the same units (mg/mL shown, but any concentration unit works). Values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What does a dilution factor of 100 mean?
A: A DF of 100 means the original solution has been diluted 100 times, typically by taking 1 part of the original solution and adding 99 parts of diluent.
Q2: Can I use different concentration units?
A: Yes, as long as both initial and final concentrations use the same units, the dilution factor calculation remains accurate.
Q3: How do I prepare a 100-fold dilution?
A: To make a 100-fold dilution, mix 1 mL of the original solution with 99 mL of diluent, or use equivalent ratios maintaining the 1:100 proportion.
Q4: Is dilution factor the same as dilution ratio?
A: No, dilution factor represents the concentration ratio (e.g., 100), while dilution ratio describes the mixing proportion (e.g., 1:100).
Q5: What if my dilution factor is less than 1?
A: A DF less than 1 would indicate concentration rather than dilution, which is not possible with this calculation. Both concentrations should be positive values with initial > final for dilution.