How to use the dilution calculator
Find how much stock solution to dilute. Enter stock concentration, target concentration, final volume in the fields above; the stock volume needed, solvent to add are computed instantly and plotted on the chart so you can see how the answer changes.
Formula
Variables
- C1 — Stock concentration
- C2 — Target concentration
- V2 — Final volume (mL)
Worked example
With stock concentration = 12, target concentration = 1, final volume = 500 mL, the calculator gives stock volume needed ≈ 41.66667 mL; solvent to add ≈ 458.3333 mL.
Frequently asked questions
What is the formula for the dilution calculation?
Stock volume needed (mL) = C2 × V2 / C1. Solvent to add (mL) = V2-[Stock volume needed]. Here C1 is stock concentration, C2 is target concentration, V2 is final volume (mL).
What inputs do I need for the dilution calculator (c1v1 = c2v2) calculator?
You need stock concentration, target concentration, final volume in mL. Each field is pre-filled with a typical example so you can see how the result responds as you edit the numbers.
How do I use this calculator?
Type values into the input fields. Results and the chart update instantly. Use Reset to restore the example values, Copy results to paste them elsewhere, or Share to copy a link that preserves your inputs.
Is the result exact?
Calculations use standard formulas and double-precision arithmetic, then display about seven significant figures. Real-world measurements carry uncertainty, so treat results as estimates unless your inputs are exact.