Question

Describe how to prepare a 1M solution of sodium hydroxide from concentrated sodium hydroxide (17.6 M)

Answer 1

First, decide upon how many mL of the diluted solution you want to make; say 1000 mL, then
mL x M = mL x M
1000 mL x 1 M = mL x 17.6 M
Solve for mL on the right. So you would take that many mL of the 17.6 M stuff and add water to the mark in a 1 L volumetric flask. Said another way, add enough water to make 1000 mL of solution. Let's say it calculates to be 50 mL. Note that this is NOT the same as saying take 50 mL of the concn NaOH and add 950 mL water.

Answer 2

Thank you Dr. Bob!