Math Problem Statement

If a liter of a 0.5 M solution is added to another solution to make a total of 2 liters, what will the concentration of the final solution be?

Solution

To solve this problem, we use the concept of dilution and the formula for concentration:

C1V1=C2V2C_1 V_1 = C_2 V_2

Where:

  • C1C_1 is the initial concentration (0.5 M),
  • V1V_1 is the initial volume (1 liter),
  • C2C_2 is the final concentration (what we are solving for),
  • V2V_2 is the final volume (2 liters).

Now, rearrange the formula to solve for C2C_2:

C2=C1V1V2C_2 = \frac{C_1 V_1}{V_2}

Substitute the values:

C2=0.5M×1L2L=0.52=0.25MC_2 = \frac{0.5 \, \text{M} \times 1 \, \text{L}}{2 \, \text{L}} = \frac{0.5}{2} = 0.25 \, \text{M}

So, the concentration of the final solution will be 0.25 M.

Would you like more details on the solution process?


Here are some related questions to further your understanding:

  1. How would the concentration change if 3 liters were the final volume instead of 2 liters?
  2. What would happen if the initial solution were 1 M instead of 0.5 M?
  3. How can you calculate the mass of solute in the final solution if you know the molar mass?
  4. What if a certain amount of solute is added instead of dilution by volume—how does this affect concentration?
  5. How does temperature affect the molarity of a solution?

Tip: When diluting a solution, remember that the amount of solute remains constant—only the volume changes.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Dilution
Concentration
Molarity

Formulas

C1 * V1 = C2 * V2

Theorems

Law of Conservation of Mass (in the context of dilution)

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12