Solutions vs. Dilutions

[rachelle1K]

Hi all, I was wondering if there were any key words in determining if a problem was asking about solution vs. dilutions? I have been trying to puck up some distinctions but have had trouble finding them. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

[MingdaH 3B]

For me, the main distinction between the two types of problems is that solution problems, which usually use the molarity = moles / liters, usually talk about creating a solution, while dilution problems, which use mv=mv, will usually give you a starting solution wheres solvent is added in some way.

[Alfred Barrion 2H]

Dilution problems typically use the term "stock solution" when one wants to dilute a certain compound. For example a problem might say you have a stock solution of 12.0 M NaOH and it would want you to figure out how much stock solution is needed to get 250. mL of 2.0 M NaOH. The word "stock solution" is one of many ways to determine if a problem wants you to use the equation mv=mv. Solution problems typically require you to use M=mol/l such as the other poster said :)

[Hussain Chharawalla 1G]

Just to add on, a dilution is more evident when you have already been given a solution. Try to pay close attention to the last statement where it will usually clarify.

[BryantChung_4B]

As the others have stated, the difference between solution and dilution is almost like creation and modifying. Dilution is simply using a concentrated solution to create a less concentrated one.