Chemistry
Dilution Calculator
Plan dilutions by solving for any missing concentration or volume value in the classic C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ relationship.
C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ helper for stock/working solution planning.
Dilution math
C₁V₁ = C₂V₂
All concentrations share the same units (e.g., molarity or %), and volumes can be any consistent unit.
How to use
- Pick the unknown (stock concentration, stock volume, target concentration, or target volume).
- Enter the three known values.
- Review the solved number and copy it straight into your lab notes.
Example
Input: C₁ = 5 M, V₁ = ?, C₂ = 1 M, V₂ = 250 mL
Output: V₁ = 50 mL of stock solution
Student-friendly breakdown
This walkthrough emphasizes the most searched ideas for Dilution Calculator: Dilution Calculator. Start with the formula above, then follow the guided steps to double-check your work. For quick revision, highlight the givens, plug into the equation, and finish by verifying your units.
Need more support? Use the links below to open the long-form guide, browse additional examples, or hop into adjacent calculators within the same topic — each one is a quick way to double-check your work or handle a related question without starting from scratch.
Deep dive & study plan
Dilution Calculator: C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ tool for stock and working solutions. It's built around dilution, c1v1=c2v2, solutions, so you can go from a raw question to a checked answer without switching tools.
The math behind it: All concentrations share the same units (e.g., molarity or %), and volumes can be any consistent unit. The core relationship is C₁V₁ = C₂V₂, shown above the calculator so you can see exactly how your inputs turn into the result.
To use it well: (1) Pick the unknown (stock concentration, stock volume, target concentration, or target volume). (2) Enter the three known values. (3) Review the solved number and copy it straight into your lab notes. Keep your units consistent as you go, and re-run a case you already know the answer to — it's the fastest way to catch a typo before it throws off a result you're relying on.
Worked example: entering C₁ = 5 M, V₁ = ?, C₂ = 1 M, V₂ = 250 mL returns V₁ = 50 mL of stock solution. Try swapping in your own numbers next, especially a case you're unsure about, before you use this for something that matters.
Quick retention checklist
- Speak the formula aloud (or annotate it) so the relationships stick.
- Write each step in your own words and compare with the numbered list above.
- Swap in new numbers for the Example to make sure the calculator (and your logic) handles edge cases.
- Check at least one related calculator below — it's the fastest way to confirm your numbers still line up from a different angle.
FAQ & notes
Can I mix concentration units?
No. Keep all concentrations in the same unit (e.g., molarity or % w/v). Convert before entering the numbers.
What if I need multiple dilution steps?
Use the calculator once per stage and carry the intermediate concentration/volume forward to the next step.
What formula does the Dilution Calculator use?
All concentrations share the same units (e.g., molarity or %), and volumes can be any consistent unit.
How do I use the Dilution Calculator?
Pick the unknown (stock concentration, stock volume, target concentration, or target volume). Enter the three known values. Review the solved number and copy it straight into your lab notes.