Dilution Calculator
Solves the dilution equation C1V1 = C2V2 for the final volume, given the initial concentration, initial volume, and the target final concentration. Tells you the total volume to top up to with solvent.
What this calculator does
The Dilution Calculator estimates your result instantly from the values you enter, using standard science & engineering formulas. Solves the dilution equation C1V1 = C2V2 for the final volume, given the initial concentration, initial volume, and the target final concentration. Tells you the total volume to top up to with solvent. Calculations run in your browser, so nothing you type is sent to a server, and the output is an estimate rather than a certified or official figure.
Result
About Dilution Calculator
This dilution calculator rearranges the standard relationship C1V1 = C2V2 to find the final volume V2 = C1·V1/C2. Enter the concentration and volume of your stock solution plus the concentration you want to end up with, and it returns the total volume the solution must reach.
The concentration units are yours to choose — molarity, percent, or any consistent unit — as long as C1 and C2 use the same one; V2 comes back in the same units as V1.
Formula & Mathematical Calculation
Final Volume (V2) = f(Initial Concentration (C1), Initial Volume (V1), Final Concentration (C2))
Calculated according to standard science formulas implemented in the calculator core.
Calculation Example
Starting with a stock at C1 = 2 and V1 = 0.5, and aiming for a final concentration C2 = 0.5, the calculator computes V2 = C1·V1/C2 = 2 × 0.5 / 0.5 = 2. You would add solvent until the solution reaches a total volume of 2 units.
Key Benefits
- Rearranges C1V1 = C2V2 for you so there is no algebra to do by hand
- Works with any concentration unit as long as C1 and C2 match
- Returns the final total volume V2 to four decimal places
- Flags when the target concentration is zero or below, which has no valid solution
How to Use this Calculator
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Enter the initial concentration (C1)
Type the concentration of your stock solution in the Initial Concentration (C1) field. -
Enter the initial volume (V1)
Type the volume of stock you are starting with in the Initial Volume (V1) field, using the volume unit you want the answer in. -
Enter the target concentration (C2)
Type the concentration you want the diluted solution to have in the Final Concentration (C2) field, then press Calculate.
Assumptions & Limitations
What the calculation assumes
- Every value you enter is treated as an exact, known amount.
- Any rate or interval you enter is assumed to hold for the whole period unless the form asks for it separately.
- Results use standard published formulas and account only for the values entered above.
- Rounding is applied for display; the underlying calculation uses your full precision.
- Results are returned in the same units you enter, unless the tool states the output unit.
What it does not cover
- Dilution Calculator produces a calculated result for reference and learning, not a certified or official measurement.
- Real-world outcomes differ when tolerances, rounding rules or local standards apply.
- Definitions and standards vary by region and change over time; verify the convention that applies to your case.
- Figures are only as accurate as the inputs you supply — check them before acting on the result.
- For work where the result carries real consequences, confirm it against an authoritative source.
Frequently Asked Questions
Free to use, no account needed. Calculations run in your browser, so nothing you type is sent to a server. Results are estimates — how we build and check our calculators.