Dilution Calculator

Solve C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ to calculate a stock concentration, stock volume, target concentration or final volume.

Calculator

Use C₁V₁ = C₂V₂. Keep both concentration values in the same unit and both volume values in the same unit.

Calculate
C₁2
V₁100
C₂0.5
V₂400

Formula and assumptions

C₁V₁ = C₂V₂

For a simple dilution, the amount of solute is unchanged while solvent is added. Concentration and volume units must each be consistent across both sides of the equation.

Assumption: Solute amount is unchanged during a simple dilution.

Variables and units

  • C1, C2 — stock and target concentration
  • V1, V2 — stock and final volume

Worked example

To prepare 400 mL at 0.50 from a 2.00 stock, V₁ = (0.50 × 400) / 2.00 = 100 mL.

Important limits

Concentration units and volume units must be internally consistent; reactions and non-ideal mixing are not modeled.

Reference and related tools

OpenStax: Molarity and dilution. Return to Chemistry Calculators for the other tools in this group.