Dilution Calculator (C1V1 = C2V2)
Calculate diluted concentration or volume using the C1V1 = C2V2 equation.
Leave one field blank — the calculator will solve for it.
How It Works
Enter any three of the four values (C1, V1, C2, V2) and the calculator solves for the missing one. C1 = initial concentration, V1 = initial volume, C2 = final concentration, V2 = final volume.
Formula
Examples
1 M HCl, 10 mL diluted to 100 mL → C2 = 0.1 M | Stock 5 M, want 0.25 M in 200 mL → V1 = 10 mL
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dilution equation?
C1V1 = C2V2 where C1 = initial concentration, V1 = initial volume, C2 = final concentration, V2 = final volume. The moles of solute stay constant.
How do I make a 1 M solution from a 10 M stock?
Use C1V1=C2V2: 10 × V1 = 1 × 1000 mL, so V1 = 100 mL of stock, diluted to 1000 mL.
Does the volume unit matter?
The units for V1 and V2 must match. The concentration units for C1 and C2 must also match, but can be any unit (M, mM, ppm, etc.).