Microbiologist Mock Interview
Master 30 Microbiologist interview questions covering lab techniques, contamination control, and research methodology.
Question 13 of 30
When making a 1L 1X PBS solution from the stock 10X concentration, how would you do it; which formula would you use?
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The interviewer will likely ask a variety of situation-based questions testing your knowledge as well as how you explain your process. In this case, buffers and reagents come at concentrations that may or may not be suitable for direct use. This is a common calculation used on a routine basis as a Microbiologist. Don't ask what PBS is as it's irrelevant to the result and it's a common reagent in most laboratories.
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"Well, 100mL of 10X PBS and 900mL water is needed to make a 1X 1L solution. So, I use the formula C1V1 C2V2 where
C1 Initial concentration of solution
V1 Initial volume of solution
C2 Final concentration of solution
V2 Final volume of solution."
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Well, 100mL of 10X PBS and 900mL water is needed to make a 1X 1L solution. So, I use the formula C1V1 C2V2 where
C1 Initial concentration of solution
V1 Initial volume of solution
C2 Final concentration of solution
V2 Final volume of solution."
Marcie's Feedback
Excellent! With this type of question, the interviewer is testing your technical knowledge. They'll undoubtedly appreciate how well-informed you are; great job!
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