The word "dilution" is spelled with the letters d-i-l-u-t-i-o-n. Its phonetic transcription in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /dɪˈluːʃən/, which represents the specific sounds of the English language. The first syllable "di" is pronounced as "duh" followed by "loo" in the second syllable. Lastly, the "tion" sound is represented by the phonetic symbol "shən." This word is commonly used in chemistry and refers to the process of weakening a solution by adding more solvent.
Dilution is a concept that refers to the reduction of the concentration or strength of a substance by adding another substance, typically a liquid. It involves the process of making a solution less concentrated by adding a solvent or a less concentrated solution. The resulting solution is often referred to as a diluted solution.
In the realm of chemistry and biology, dilution is commonly used to manipulate the concentration of a solution to a desired level. This is achieved by adding a solvent, such as water, to decrease the ratio of the solute within the solution. The dilution process is typically quantified using a dilution factor, which measures the relative proportion between the original concentration and the diluted concentration.
Dilution is frequently employed in scientific experiments, where it allows researchers to control and adjust the concentrations of various substances for accurate measurements and observations. It is particularly relevant in fields such as pharmaceuticals, environmental analysis, and biochemistry.
Outside the realm of science, dilution can also refer to a decrease in the purity, strength, or effectiveness of a substance. For instance, in the context of finance and investing, dilution may occur when a company issues additional shares, thereby reducing the ownership percentage and value of existing shareholders. Dilution can also describe the lessening of the intensity or impact of an idea, message, or influence when it is spread out or divided among a larger group or population.
1. The act of reducing the strength of a mixture or solution. 2. A weakened solution. 3. In homeopathy, dynamization or potency.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The act of making thin or more liquid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "dilution" derives from the Latin term "dilutio", which is the past participle of the verb "diluere". "Diluere", in Latin, is a combination of the prefix "di-" (meaning "apart") and the verb "luere" (meaning "to wash" or "to cleanse"). Therefore, "dilutio" can be translated as "washing apart" or "washing away". Over time, this term evolved into the Old French word "dilucion", which eventually entered the English language as "dilution" with a similar meaning of the process of thinning or weakening a substance by adding a liquid to it.