Solution Dilution Calculator
The dilution equation relates a stock solution concentration and volume to a target concentration and final volume. The concentration units must be compatible.
How to use this calculator
- Enter stock concentration, target concentration and starting stock volume.
- Check that all inputs use the same units, period and population scope.
- Change one assumption at a time when comparing scenarios.
Formula used by solution dilution calculator calculator
C₁V₁ = C₂V₂; final volume V₂ = C₁V₁ ÷ C₂.
- C₁V₁ = C₂V₂; final volume V₂ = C₁V₁ ÷ C₂.
- The simple relationship assumes compatible concentration definitions and additive volume. Follow appropriate lab safety and handling procedures.
- The tool validates inputs and rounds displayed figures for readability; it does not validate assumptions against external records.
Worked examples
Worked example
250 mL of a 2-unit stock is diluted to 0.5 units concentration.
V₂ = 2 × 250 ÷ 0.5 = 1,000 mL; diluent = 750 mL.
The final volume is 1,000 mL and the nominal diluent volume is 750 mL.
Understanding the result
The dilution equation relates a stock solution concentration and volume to a target concentration and final volume. The concentration units must be compatible.
The simple relationship assumes compatible concentration definitions and additive volume. Follow appropriate lab safety and handling procedures.
Important notes
The simple relationship assumes compatible concentration definitions and additive volume. Follow appropriate lab safety and handling procedures.
Treat the result as an estimate from the entered assumptions. For safety, legal, engineering, health or commercial decisions, verify relevant specifications and professional guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Can target concentration exceed stock concentration?
That is a concentration increase rather than dilution; this calculator rejects it.
Can I use different concentration units?
Only if they represent the same concentration basis or are converted to compatible units first.
How should I interpret this result?
The simple relationship assumes compatible concentration definitions and additive volume. Follow appropriate lab safety and handling procedures.
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Related explanations
Learn the method behind the number or compare the terminology before using the calculator.
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This page provides a calculation tool plus explanatory information so you can understand what the result means and when the underlying method may not fit your situation.