Dilution Calculator
Dilution calculator
Solve C1V1 = C2V2 in any direction or build a serial dilution plan with export-ready lab steps.
Result
V1 = 250 mL stock
Dilution factor 4.
Quick setups
Lab prep checklist
C1V1 = C2V2 = 2 × 250 = 0.5 × 1,000
- Measure 250 mL stock solution.
- Add 750 mL diluent.
- Mix and bring final volume to 1,000 mL.
How to use
Use clean volumetric glassware, transfer stock first, then top up to final volume. Always label concentration and dilution factor for each tube.
Formula
C1V1 = C2V2 so V1 = (C2 x V2) / C1 Symbol legend
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Copy |
|---|---|---|---|
C_1 | Stock concentration | mol/L | |
V_1 | Stock volume required | L | |
C_2 | Target concentration | mol/L | |
V_2 | Final target volume | L |
- Use stock concentration C1 and target concentration C2.
- Enter final target volume V2.
- Solve V1, then add solvent to reach V2.
Example
Worked example: 2.0 M stock to 0.50 M, 1.00 L final
- 1 Given C1 = 2.0 M, C2 = 0.50 M, V2 = 1.00 L
- 2 V1 = (C2 x V2) / C1 = (0.50 x 1.00) / 2.0
- 3 V1 = 0.25 L, then add solvent to reach 1.00 L
Use 250 mL stock and dilute to 1.00 L total.
How
- Enter stock concentration C1.
- Enter desired target concentration C2 and final volume V2.
- Read required stock volume V1 and implied solvent volume.
Avoid
- Trying to dilute to a concentration higher than stock concentration.
- Mixing mL and L without consistent conversion.
- Adding solvent volume directly instead of diluting to final total volume.
Ref only. Verify values. Follow lab safety.
FAQ
Can target concentration be higher than stock concentration?
No, not by dilution alone. Dilution only lowers concentration.
Should I add solvent equal to V2 - V1?
Yes. Add solvent so the final total volume equals V2.
Can I use mL in this calculator?
Yes, volume is accepted and converted consistently before calculation.
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