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Dilution

Definition

Dilution refers to reducing the concentration of a solute in a solution, usually by adding more solvent.

Analogy

Think about adding ice cubes to your hot coffee. As they melt, they dilute your coffee by decreasing its overall strength and temperature - just like adding more solvent decreases the concentration in a chemical solution.

Related terms

Concentration: The amount of solute present in a given quantity of solvent or solution.

Solution: A homogeneous mixture composed of two or more substances. In such a mixture, one substance is dissolved into another one.

Solvent volume increase: When we dilute something, we are increasing its volume without changing the amount or mass.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.