Chemistry

Serial Dilution Calculator

Plan repeated equal-ratio dilutions and see the concentration after every transfer.

Explicit units and model assumptionsLocal calculations with worked examples
Chemistry workspace
Chemistry workspace

Check the units, concentration basis and assumptions before interpreting the result.

See the method

Set up your calculation

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Your chemistry result

Your result

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Use the Calculate button to see your result.

Review the method below for assumptions and conventions.

How to use this tool

  1. Enter starting concentration, transferred sample, diluent per step, number of steps.
  2. Select Calculate to view the result.
  3. Check the method and assumptions below before using the result.

The method, explained

Each step retains a fraction transfer ÷ (transfer + diluent) of the previous concentration. After n steps, concentration = initial concentration × fraction^n.

A WORKED EXAMPLE

Using starting concentration = 1 mol/L, transferred sample = 1 mL, diluent per step = 9 mL, number of steps = 4, the result is 0.0001 mol/L. Change these example inputs to match your task; use the method above to check each step.

Understanding your result

Here a tenfold dilution uses one part sample plus nine parts diluent, making ten parts total. The displayed factor follows total volume divided by sample volume.

What to keep in mind

Assumes full mixing between steps and the same transfer and diluent volumes each time. Educational calculation only; use validated procedures for laboratory work.

Reference: OpenStax Chemistry 2e — chemical quantities and models

Common questions

Does a 1:10 dilution mean one part sample plus ten parts water?

Here a tenfold dilution uses one part sample plus nine parts diluent, making ten parts total. The displayed factor follows total volume divided by sample volume.

Are my inputs uploaded?

No. This calculation runs in your browser without an account or an external API.

Methodology maintained by ClarityKit. How these tools are built and checked.