Preparing 4.0 L of 0.50 M H2SO4 from 10.0 M H2SO4: A Practical Guide for Lab Use

When working in a laboratory, precise preparation of solutions is often necessary. This article will walk you through the process of preparing 4.0 L of 0.50 M H2SO4 from a 10.0 M stock solution. Each step is explained in detail using the dilution equation: (M_1V_1 M_2V_2).

The Dilution Equation and Its Application

The dilution equation is a fundamental concept in quantitative chemistry. It is expressed as:

[[M_1V_1 M_2V_2]]

where (M_1) and (V_1) are the molarity and volume of the concentrated stock solution, respectively, and (M_2) and (V_2) are the molarity and volume of the diluted solution you are preparing.

Step-by-Step Calculation

Let's translate the given values into the equation:

[[M_1 10.0 , text{M}]] [[M_2 0.50 , text{M}]] [[V_2 4.0 , text{L}]]

Plugging these values into the dilution equation:

[[10.0 , text{M} times V_1 0.50 , text{M} times 4.0 , text{L}]]

Solving for (V_1):

[[V_1 frac{0.50 , text{M} times 4.0 , text{L}}{10.0 , text{M}}]] [[V_1 0.20 , text{L} , text{or} , 200 , text{mL}]]

Therefore, to prepare 4.0 L of 0.50 M H2SO4 from a 10.0 M stock solution, you need to use 200 mL of the concentrated solution.

Additional Tips for Laboratory Practice

1. Maintain Safety Precautions: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat during all chemical handling and preparation. Ensure the working area is well-ventilated.

2. Label Containers Carefully: Clearly label all your solutions with their exact molarity and date of preparation to avoid confusion. This is particularly important in a busy lab environment.

3. Use Accurate Measuring Tools: To ensure accuracy, use calibrated measuring devices. This step is crucial to avoid errors that can lead to incorrect concentrations or even safety hazards.

Conclusion

Preparing solutions of specific concentrations is a fundamental skill in chemistry. By understanding and applying the dilution equation correctly, you can prepare accurately and efficiently. Whether in a high school lab or a complex research environment, these principles remain equally important and applicable.