Dilution Calculator
Calculate volumes for simple and serial dilutions with pipetting-ready output
Simple Dilution C₁V₁ = C₂V₂
Stock Solution
Final Solution
ℹ️ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between simple and serial dilution?
A simple dilution is a one-step process using C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ to reach a target concentration. You mix a calculated volume of stock solution with diluent to produce the desired final concentration.
A serial dilution creates a series of stepwise dilutions, where each tube is diluted from the previous one by a constant fold factor, producing a concentration gradient. This is commonly used for standard curves, dose-response assays, and titrations.
Which dilution method should I use for ELISA or dose-response curves?
For ELISA standard curves, dose-response experiments, and antibody titrations, use serial dilution. It creates evenly spaced concentration points on a log scale, which is ideal for generating sigmoidal curves.
For preparing a single working solution from stock (e.g., diluting 10× PBS to 1×), use simple dilution.
Does this calculator convert between concentration units automatically?
No. This calculator uses manual unit selection to avoid ambiguity. Both C₁ and C₂ must use the same unit type (e.g., both molar-based or both mass-based). This ensures the dilution ratio is always correct regardless of the unit system you use.
If you need to convert between molarity and mass concentration, use the Concentration Converter first.
Can I use molarity and mg/mL together in C₁V₁ = C₂V₂?
Not directly. The C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ equation requires C₁ and C₂ to be in compatible units. Convert one to match the other using the Concentration Converter, then return here to calculate the dilution.