Dilution calculator: one-step and serial dilution
Calculate stock and diluent volumes from a target concentration and final volume, then generate a serial-dilution table.
This calculator reports quantities only; it is not an experimental procedure.
A clear one-step dilution workflow
Serial-dilution tables generated automatically
Work in µL, mL, or L
Copy results, share setups, and save presets locally
How to use this calculator
- Choose one-step or serial dilution.
- Enter the stock concentration, target concentration or total factor, and final volume.
- For serial dilution, enter the number of steps and each factor to build the table.
- If needed, add rounding or pipette limits, then copy or share the result.
Formulas
- One-step dilution: C1V1 = C2V2, so V1 = (C2 × V2) / C1
- Diluent volume = V2 − V1
- For each serial step: transfer volume = step final volume ÷ factor
- Final serial concentration: Cfinal = C1 ÷ (F1 × F2 × … × Fn)
Frequently asked questions
Can I work in µL?
Yes. Switch among µL, mL, and L; the calculator converts volumes internally.
How can I avoid awkward decimal volumes?
Set a minimum pipette volume and rounding increment to see practical candidates with their percentage errors.
Can presets be saved locally?
Yes. Save commonly used step-factor sets as presets in this browser on this device.
Does it also convert concentration units?
No. Enter C1 and C2 in the same concentration unit; convert them first when necessary.
Why does serial dilution report a C2 mismatch?
The product of the step factors may differ from the total dilution required. Check the table's cumulative factor and arrived concentration.
Notes
- This page calculates quantities only; it does not choose procedures or make safety decisions.
- Follow your institution's SOPs for mixing order, contamination control, temperature, and reagent handling.
- Viscosity, hold-up volume, and instrument accuracy can shift real results away from theory.
- Before use, confirm that the units and order of magnitude are sensible.