Dilution Calculator (Single-Step and Serial Dilution)
Calculate stock and solvent amounts from target concentration and final volume, and generate serial dilution tables.
How to use
- Choose single-step dilution or serial dilution.
- Enter stock concentration, target concentration or total dilution factor, and final volume.
- For serial dilution, enter the number of steps and each step factor to generate the table.
- Add rounding or pipette constraints if needed, then copy or share the result.
Formulas
- Single-step dilution: V1 = (C2 × V2) / C1
- Diluent volume = V2 - V1
- For each serial dilution step: transfer volume = step final volume / factor
- Final serial dilution concentration: Cfinal = C1 / (F1 × F2 × ... × Fn)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use it in uL?
Yes. Volume can be switched freely between uL, mL, and L. The tool converts volume internally for you.
I get awkward decimal volumes.
You can set a minimum pipette volume and rounding increment to get practical candidates and visible error percentages.
Can presets be saved locally?
Yes. Frequently used step-factor sets can be stored as presets in your browser on this device.
Does it convert concentration units too?
No. This tool assumes C1 and C2 are entered in the same concentration unit. Convert them first if needed.
Why does serial dilution say my target C2 does not match?
The product of your step factors may not match the total dilution needed for the target concentration. Check the cumulative factor and arrived concentration shown in the table.
Notes
- This page performs quantity calculations only and does not make procedural or safety decisions.
- Follow institutional SOPs for mixing order, contamination control, temperature, and reagent handling.
- Viscosity, retained liquid, and instrument accuracy can move real outcomes away from the theoretical values.
- Always check that the units and order of magnitude look reasonable before using the result.