When preparing a solution, what would typically be the first step in adjusting concentration?

Choosing the appropriate solvent is a critical first step in adjusting the concentration of a solution. The solvent plays a key role in dissolving the solute and can affect the overall behavior of the solution, including its concentration. Different solvents have different properties, such as polarity, boiling point, and solvation capacity, which can influence how well solutes dissolve and how concentrated the resulting solution will be.

For instance, if a solute is not very soluble in the chosen solvent, it can lead to poor mixing and inaccurate concentration measurements. Therefore, before any modification or addition to the solute or consideration of temperature adjustments, selecting the right solvent is essential to ensure effective dissolution and the desired concentration outcome.

Adjusting concentration through methods like adding solute, altering temperature, or performing dilution typically follows after the appropriate solvent has been selected, as these actions depend on the solvent's properties and its interaction with the solute.