Dilution Calculator
Find the missing concentration or volume when diluting a solution, using the dilution equation M₁V₁ = M₂V₂.
| Solve for | |
| Stock concentration (M₁) | e.g. M or % (same units as M₂) |
| Stock volume (V₁) | e.g. mL or L (same units as V₂) |
| Final concentration (M₂) | |
| Final volume (V₂) |
Result
Your dilution result will appear here.
Formula and assumptions
- Dilution equation: M₁V₁ = M₂V₂, where M is concentration and V is volume (stock 1, final 2).
- Use consistent units: the concentration units for M₁ and M₂ must match, and the volume units for V₁ and V₂ must match.
- Solvent to add = V₂ − V₁ (when V₁ is known or solved), assuming volumes are additive (an approximation for many solutions).
How it works
Diluting means adding solvent to a stock solution to reach a lower concentration. The amount of solute stays the same, so concentration × volume is conserved.
Formula
- M₁V₁ = M₂V₂
- M₁,V₁ = stock concentration and volume; M₂,V₂ = final concentration and volume.
- Solvent to add ≈ V₂ − V₁ (assuming volumes are additive, which is an approximation).
Worked example
To make 100 mL of 1 M solution from a 10 M stock: V₁ = (1 × 100) / 10 = 10 mL stock, then add solvent up to 100 mL total (about 90 mL, approximately).
Assumptions
- Use matching units for M₁/M₂ and for V₁/V₂. For precise work, mix to final volume using proper lab technique.
Estimate for general information only. For laboratory or medical use, follow proper procedures and confirm measurements.
How to use the Dilution Calculator
It takes a few seconds, and every figure is calculated in your browser.
- Choose what to solve for.
- Enter the stock concentration (m₁).
- Enter the stock volume (v₁).
- Enter the final concentration (m₂).
- Enter the final volume (v₂).
- Press Calculate — the result appears in the dark panel beside the form.
- Use Copy, CSV, Share or Print under the result if you want to keep it.
Dilution Calculator — frequently asked questions
What formula does the Dilution Calculator use?
Dilution equation: M₁V₁ = M₂V₂, where M is concentration and V is volume (stock 1, final 2). Use consistent units: the concentration units for M₁ and M₂ must match, and the volume units for V₁ and V₂ must match. Solvent to add = V₂ − V₁ (when V₁ is known or solved), assuming volumes are additive (an approximation for many solutions).
How does the Dilution Calculator work?
Diluting means adding solvent to a stock solution to reach a lower concentration. The amount of solute stays the same, so concentration × volume is conserved.
What assumptions and limitations should I know about?
Use matching units for M₁/M₂ and for V₁/V₂. For precise work, mix to final volume using proper lab technique.
Can you walk through a worked example?
To make 100 mL of 1 M solution from a 10 M stock: V₁ = (1 × 100) / 10 = 10 mL stock, then add solvent up to 100 mL total (about 90 mL, approximately).
Last updated 10 November 2026 · Formula, worked example and assumptions are documented above, and every result is calculated in your browser.