PPM, or parts per million, is a measurement used to express very small concentrations of a substance in a solution. It is particularly useful for dilute solutions where the amount of solute is minimal compared to the solvent. This unit allows for precise quantification of substances in environments such as water, air, or other mediums, making it ideal for monitoring pollutants or trace elements that are present in low concentrations. Hence, PPM is primarily applicable to dilute solutions rather than concentrated solutions, gases, or solids.