Dilution Calculator (C1V1 = C2V2)
Dilution calculator using C1V1 = C2V2: find how much stock solution to take, the final volume or the final concentration.
C1 · V1 = C2 · V2
How to use this calculator
- Choose the quantity you want under “Solve for”.
- Type the known values and pick their units: any combination works.
- The result updates as you type. Open “Show the steps” to see the substitution.
When you dilute a solution the amount of solute stays the same, so C1·V1 = C2·V2. Here 1 is the stock solution and 2 the diluted one.
Mix units freely: stock in mol/L and final in mmol/L, or volumes in mL and L. The calculator converts everything before applying the formula.
Formula
C1 · V1 = C2 · V2
| Symbol | Quantity | Units |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Stock concentration | mol/L, mmol/L, µmol/L, nmol/L, mol/m³ |
| V1 | Stock volume | L, mL, µL, m³, dm³, cm³, gal, gal (UK), qt, pt, cup, fl oz, ft³, in³ |
| C2 | Final concentration | mol/L, mmol/L, µmol/L, nmol/L, mol/m³ |
| V2 | Final volume | L, mL, µL, m³, dm³, cm³, gal, gal (UK), qt, pt, cup, fl oz, ft³, in³ |
Worked example
Given: C1 = 2 mol/L · V1 = 50 mL · C2 = 0.5 mol/L
V2 = C1 · V1C2
Result: V2 = 200 mL
Frequently asked questions
How do I make 100 mL of 0.1 M from a 1 M stock?
V₁ = C₂·V₂/C₁ = 0.1 × 100 mL / 1 = 10 mL of stock, topped up to 100 mL with solvent.
Does C1V1 = C2V2 work for percent or mg/mL?
Yes, as long as C₁ and C₂ use the same unit. The formula only assumes the amount of solute is conserved.