Question

Question #1741d

Answer 1

The dilution factor is 10.

Explanation:

`DF = V_f/V_i`

In your example,

`V_f` = aliquot volume + diluent volume = (25 + 225) mL = 250 mL

`DF = V_f/V_i = "250 mL"/"25 mL" = 10`

You have diluted the sample by a factor of 10.

The dilution factor is often used as the denominator of a fraction. For example, a DF of 10 means a 1:10 dilution.

Here, the sample is not liquid. But it is generally agreed that 1 g of sample has a volume of 1 mL, even if that is not actually the case. You still get convenience and reproducibility.