Molarity Dilution Calculator
This molarity dilution calculator uses the dilution equation M₁V₁ = M₂V₂ to find any unknown variable. Enter the initial molarity, initial volume, and final molarity — the calculator computes the final volume needed. Perfect for preparing diluted solutions from concentrated stocks.
Molarity Dilution (M1V1=M2V2) Calculator
M₁ × V₁ = M₂ × V₂
V₂ = (M₁ × V₁) / M₂ What is Molarity Dilution?
Molarity dilution is the process of reducing the concentration of a solution by adding more solvent. The total moles of solute remain constant — only the volume changes.
The dilution equation M₁V₁ = M₂V₂ relates the initial concentration (M₁) and volume (V₁) to the final concentration (M₂) and volume (V₂). Knowing any 3 values lets you solve for the 4th.
Dilution calculations are essential in every lab — from preparing working solutions from concentrated stocks to serial dilutions in microbiology and pharmacology.
Molarity Dilution Formula (M1V1 = M2V2)
The dilution formula states that the product of molarity and volume is conserved:
Where M₁ = initial molarity, V₁ = initial volume, M₂ = final (diluted) molarity, V₂ = final volume. Solve for any unknown by rearranging.
To find the final volume: V₂ = (M₁ × V₁) / M₂. To find the volume of stock needed: V₁ = (M₂ × V₂) / M₁.
Both volumes must use the same unit (mL, L, or µL). The calculator handles unit matching automatically.
How to Calculate Molarity Dilution
Follow these steps to perform a dilution calculation:
- Identify M₁ — the molarity of your concentrated stock solution.
- Decide M₂ — the target molarity of your diluted solution.
- Determine V₁ or V₂ — either the volume of stock you'll use or the final volume you need.
- Apply M₁V₁ = M₂V₂ to solve for the unknown variable.
- Calculate the solvent to add: Solvent volume = V₂ − V₁.
- Verify using this calculator. Enter M₁, V₁, and M₂ to get V₂ instantly.
Molarity Dilution Examples
Here are 3 worked dilution examples:
Example 1: Dilute 10 M HCl to 1 M. Need 1 L final volume. V₁ = (1 × 1000) ÷ 10 = 100 mL of 10 M HCl + 900 mL water.
Example 2: Have 50 mL of 5 M NaOH, dilute to 0.5 M. V₂ = (5 × 50) ÷ 0.5 = 500 mL. Add 450 mL water.
Example 3: Serial dilution — start with 1 M, perform 3 × 1:10 dilutions: 1 M → 0.1 M → 0.01 M → 0.001 M (1 mM).
Molarity Calculator Tools
Explore our collection of 20 specialized molarity calculators. Each tool is designed for a specific type of calculation with its own unique input fields and formulas.
FAQs
What is the dilution formula?
M1 × V1 = M2 × V2, where M1 and V1 are the initial molarity and volume, and M2 and V2 are the final molarity and volume.
How do I dilute 10 M HCl to 1 M?
Use M1V1 = M2V2: 10 × V1 = 1 × 1000 mL → V1 = 100 mL. Add 100 mL of 10 M HCl to 900 mL water.
Can I dilute in steps?
Yes. Serial dilution applies M1V1=M2V2 at each step. The calculator handles single-step dilution.
What units does the Molarity Dilution Calculator support?
The molarity dilution calculator supports mass units (g, mg, µg, kg), volume units (L, mL, µL, gal), molar mass (g/mol, kg/mol), and molarity units (M, mM, µM, nM, pM, fM, aM).
Is the Molarity Dilution Calculator free to use?
Yes. The molarity dilution calculator is 100% free, requires no sign-up, and works on all devices. All calculations are performed instantly in your browser.