Calculate solution dilution using C1V1 = C2V2. Find any missing variable: concentration or volume.
The dilution formula C1×V1 = C2×V2 states that the amount of solute remains constant when you add solvent. C = concentration, V = volume.
| Dilution | Ratio | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1:10 | 1 part stock + 9 parts solvent | General lab dilution |
| 1:100 | 1 part + 99 parts | Bacterial cultures |
| 1:2 (serial) | Equal parts each step | Antibody titration |
It works for dilutions where no chemical reaction occurs. It does not apply to mixing two different solutions or to concentrated acid dilutions where volume is not additive.
Any units work as long as C1 and C2 use the same concentration unit, and V1 and V2 use the same volume unit.
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Open βEnter the starting concentration, desired final concentration, and one of the volumes (stock or final). The calculator determines the other volume and the dilution ratio.
C1 Γ V1 = C2 Γ V2, where C1 = initial concentration, V1 = volume of stock, C2 = final concentration, V2 = final volume. Dilution ratio = V2 / V1.
Diluting 10% bleach to 1% solution: C1=10%, C2=1%, want V2=1000 mL. V1 = (1 Γ 1000) / 10 = 100 mL. Mix 100 mL bleach with 900 mL water.
Always add the concentrated solution to the diluent (solvent), not the reverse β especially with acids. For serial dilutions, prepare each step from the previous dilution, not the stock. Label everything clearly.