1. What is the Cell Dilution Formula?

The cell dilution formula calculates the final volume needed to achieve a desired cell concentration from an initial cell suspension. This is essential in cell culture, microbiology, and various laboratory procedures.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the dilution formula:

Where:

• \( V_1 \) — Initial volume (mL)
• \( C_1 \) — Initial concentration (cells/mL)
• \( C_2 \) — Desired concentration (cells/mL)
• \( V_2 \) — Final volume needed (mL)

Explanation: The formula maintains the total number of cells constant while changing the concentration by adjusting the volume.

3. Importance of Cell Dilution

Details: Accurate cell dilution is crucial for experiments requiring specific cell densities, such as plating cells for assays, preparing samples for flow cytometry, or creating standard curves.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter initial volume in mL, both concentrations in cells/mL. All values must be positive numbers. The calculator will determine the final volume needed, dilution factor, and how much diluent to add.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if I want to dilute to a specific volume rather than concentration?
A: Use the formula \( C_2 = C_1 \times (V_1/V_2) \) to calculate the resulting concentration when diluting to a specific volume.

Q2: How do I perform serial dilutions?
A: Perform multiple dilution steps, typically using the same dilution factor each time (e.g., 1:10 at each step).

Q3: What's the best way to mix after dilution?
A: Gently pipette up and down or vortex at low speed to ensure homogeneous distribution without damaging cells.

Q4: Does this work for non-cell particles?
A: Yes, the formula works for any particle suspension (beads, bacteria, etc.) as long as concentrations are in particles/mL.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically precise, but actual results depend on accurate measurement of initial concentration and precise pipetting.