Dilution
The process of reducing a solution's concentration by adding more solvent, leaving the amount of solute unchanged.
Formula / equation
M₁V₁ = M₂V₂
Unit
mol/L
In depth
Because the moles of solute are conserved, the product of concentration and volume stays constant, which gives the simple dilution equation. Concentrated acids must always be added to water rather than the reverse, so that the considerable heat released is absorbed by the bulk of the water.
Examples in the real world
Taking 10.0 mL of 2.00 M stock and making it up to 100.0 mL gives 0.200 M.