Mutterlësung

Mutterlësung is a German term that translates to "mother solution." It is often used in chemistry and related fields to refer to a concentrated stock solution from which other, less concentrated solutions are prepared. This practice is common in laboratories and industrial settings to ensure consistency and accuracy when diluting chemicals.

The concept of Mutterlësung is based on the principle of serial dilution. A Mutterlësung is prepared at a known concentration, and then precise amounts of this concentrated solution are mixed with a solvent to create working solutions of desired dilutions. This method is more efficient and less prone to error than attempting to accurately measure very small quantities of a solute directly from its pure form.

The preparation and storage of Mutterlësung require careful attention to detail. Accurate weighing of the solute and precise measurement of the solvent are crucial to ensure the correct initial concentration. Proper labeling is also essential, including the name of the substance, its concentration, the date of preparation, and the initials of the person who prepared it. Storage conditions, such as temperature and light exposure, must be controlled to maintain the stability of the solution.

Mutterlësung can be prepared for a wide range of substances, including acids, bases, salts, and biological reagents. The specific concentration of a Mutterlësung will depend on its intended use and the range of dilutions that are expected to be prepared from it. This approach simplifies laboratory workflows and is a fundamental technique in many scientific disciplines.