In the dilution equation m_1 v_1 = m_2 v_2, what do m_1 and v_1 represent?

• A. The final concentration and final volume of the solution after dilution
• B. The initial concentration and initial volume of the solution before dilution
• C. The mass and volume of the solute added during dilution
• D. The molarity and volume of the solvent used for dilution

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the dilution equation \(m_1 v_1 = m_2 v_2\) relates the concentrations and volumes of a solution before and after dilution.
2. Identify that \(m_1\) represents the initial concentration (molarity) of the solution before dilution.
3. Recognize that \(v_1\) represents the initial volume of the solution before dilution.
4. Note that \(m_2\) and \(v_2\) correspond to the concentration and volume after dilution, respectively.
5. Remember that this equation assumes the amount of solute remains constant during dilution, so the product of concentration and volume before dilution equals that after dilution.