Dilution Calculator (C₁V₁ = C₂V₂)

Calculate V₁ = C₂V₂/C₁. Measure that volume of stock solution. Transfer to a volumetric flask. Add solvent until the final volume V₂ is reached. Mix thoroughly. For example, to make 500 mL of 0.1 M HCl from 1 M HCl: V₁ = (0.1)(500)/1 = 50 mL stock, then fill to 500 mL.

A serial dilution performs multiple sequential dilutions, each reducing concentration by the same factor. For example, a 1:10 serial dilution takes 1 mL of sample and adds 9 mL of diluent, then repeats. After 6 steps, concentration is reduced by 10⁶ = one million times. Used in microbiology to count bacteria.

Dilution only adds more solvent — no solute is removed or added. The amount of solute (moles = C × V) remains constant. More solvent simply spreads the same number of solute molecules through a larger volume, reducing concentration.