How to Use
Vector Design Studio
Dilution Calculator
VectorBuilder’s dilution calculator allows researchers to easily calculate the amount of stock solution
required to make a working solution at a desired molar concentration and volume for use in downstream
experiments.
Molarity and dilution
Molarity is defined as the number of moles of solute dissolved in one liter of solution and is
expressed in units of moles per liter (M). A stock solution is a concentrated solution prepared to a
high molarity. Researchers often prepare stock solutions to conserve space and resources, as these
concentrated solutions can be stored for long periods and diluted as needed to make working
solutions.
The formula 𝐶1𝑉1 = 𝐶2𝑉2 can be used to determine the volume of stock
solution needed to
achieve a desired final concentration and volume of a working solution. Where 𝐶1 is the stock
concentration, 𝑉1 is the volume of the stock solution required, 𝐶2 is the desired concentration,
and 𝑉2 is the final volume of the working solution. This equation can be arranged as below to
determine the amount of stock solution required to prepare a working solution at a given volume and
concentration.
Required Stock Solution (L) =
Desired Final Concentration (mol/L) x Desired Total Volume (L) Stock Solution Concentration (mol/L)
Figure 1. Calculation of the amount of stock solution needed for a working solution at a desired concentration and volume.
Serial dilutions
Serial dilution is a step-wise dilution of a solution by a select factor. Serial dilutions are used for analytical purposes and in addition are a method to easily dilute a highly concentrated solution. Most serial dilutions are performed by a dilution factor of 10; for instance, 100 ul of stock solution is added to 900 ul of solvent followed by mixing and subsequent repeats of this dilution until the desired molarity is achieved.
Figure 2. Example preparation of a serial dilution with a dilution factor of 10.
To calculate the weight of a substance needed to prepare a stock solution or a working solution directly, use VectorBuilder’s Molarity Calculator.