Question: how do you dilute something with a huge concentration to the same thing with a smaller concentration? For example: How do you dilute a 36 M solution of NaOH to a 6 M solution of NaOH?

Answer 1

Use C1*V1 = C2*V2
For example, to dilute 100 mL of 36M solution to 6M, we put
36M *100 mL = 6M * V2
Solve for V2 = 36M*100mL/6M = 600 mL
This means that the 100 mL of 36M solution must be diluted to give a final volume of 600 mL.

Answer 2

Just to clarify- if I would have to mix 100 mL of 36 M solution with 600 mL of distilled water to make a 6 M solution (700 total mL) is that correct, or do I have that mixed up? Sorry for the trouble :(

Answer 3

No you would not do that. Mathmate's directions are to measure out 100 mL and add enough water to it to make a total volume of 600 mL. And to clarify another point, that isn't the same as adding 100 mL of the 36M stuff to 500 mL H2O BECAUSE 100 + 500 may NOT be a final volume of 600 mL.