Dilution Factor Calculator

01 Set up your calculation

1. Enter the stock aliquot transferred into the new preparation.
2. Enter the added diluent volume.
3. Read the total-to-stock factor separately from the diluent-to-stock ratio.

02 The relationship

For the assumptions behind these results, read the explanation below. You can also explore Serial Dilution and Solution Dilution.

03 Two ratios that should not be confused

A tenfold dilution means that the final concentration is one tenth of the stock concentration. Under an additive-volume approximation, one volume of stock is combined with nine volumes of diluent. Adding ten volumes of diluent would instead give an elevenfold dilution.

The calculator shows both ratios explicitly. When recording a preparation, write down the actual stock and final volumes alongside the dilution factor so another person can reconstruct the intended operation.

04 Conservation and practical measurement

The relationship follows from conservation of solute during dilution. It assumes the diluent contains none of the tracked solute and that no solute is lost or created during mixing. The result is independent of which volume unit you choose, provided both values represent the same physical quantities.

Volumes of different liquids are not always additive. For accurate volumetric preparation, take the specified stock aliquot and make the solution up to the required final volume. Small transfer volumes also require equipment suitable for that range; a correct ratio does not remove measurement uncertainty.