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?

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.

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 :(

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.

To dilute a solution with a high concentration to a lower concentration, you need to add a solvent (usually water) to the solution. In this case, you want to dilute a 36 M solution of NaOH to a 6 M solution of NaOH. Here's a step-by-step explanation on how to do it:

1. Calculate the volume of the concentrated solution you need for the desired dilution. This can be done using the formula:

V1 * C1 = V2 * C2

where V1 is the volume of the concentrated solution, C1 is the concentration of the concentrated solution, V2 is the desired final volume, and C2 is the desired final concentration.

In this example, let's say you want to make 500 mL of a 6 M NaOH solution from a 36 M NaOH solution. Plugging these values into the formula, we have:

V1 * 36 M = 500 mL * 6 M

Rearranging the equation to solve for V1:

V1 = (500 mL * 6 M) / 36 M
= 83.33 mL

So, you would need 83.33 mL of the 36 M NaOH solution.

2. Take a volumetric flask or a container with a known volume large enough to hold your desired final volume of the diluted solution. In this example, use a 500 mL volumetric flask.

3. Add the required volume of the concentrated solution (83.33 mL) to the flask using a pipette or a graduated cylinder. Be careful and accurate while measuring the volume.

4. Fill the remainder of the volumetric flask to the desired final volume (500 mL in this case) with the solvent (water in most cases). Slowly add the solvent while swirling the flask gently to ensure thorough mixing.

5. Once filled, cap the flask and invert it several times to ensure complete mixing of the solution. This will allow the solute (NaOH) to distribute evenly throughout the solvent.

6. Your 6 M NaOH solution is now ready. Label the flask appropriately to indicate the concentration and other necessary details.

Remember, when diluting a solution, always add the concentrated solution to the solvent to avoid any violent chemical reactions. Additionally, wear appropriate safety equipment and handle chemicals with care.