Dilution Calculator
M1V1 = M2V2 for any dilution problem.
Reviewed by James Whitfield · How we check our maths
Your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Stock volume needed
- 25 mL
- Diluent to add
- 225 mL
- Dilution factor
- 1 : 10
- Fold dilution
- 10×
Working
- 1V₁ = (0.5 × 250) ÷ 5 = 25 mL
Quick answer
Dilution preserves moles of solute, so stock concentration × stock volume equals final concentration × final volume.
The formula
M₁V₁ = M₂V₂
Worked example
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with.
Inputs
- Stock concentration5 M
- Final concentration0.5 M
- Final volume250 mL
Result
- Stock volume needed25 mL
- Diluent to add225 mL
- Dilution factor1 : 10
- Fold dilution10×
How to use the Dilution Calculator
- 1Enter your stock concentration.
- 2Enter the concentration and volume you need.
- 3Read the stock volume and diluent required.
Frequently asked questions
Do I add stock to water or water to stock?
For acids, always add acid to water. Otherwise add stock to a partial volume of diluent, then top up to the final mark.
What is a serial dilution?
Repeated fixed-factor dilutions, used to reach very low concentrations accurately without measuring tiny volumes.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error