1. What is Stock Dilution?

Stock dilution refers to the process of reducing the concentration of a solution by adding more solvent. The dilution equation relates the concentration and volume of the concentrated stock solution to the final diluted solution.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the dilution equation:

Where:

• \( C_2 \) — Final diluted concentration (mg/mL)
• \( C_{stock} \) — Stock solution concentration (mg/mL)
• \( V_{stock} \) — Volume of stock solution used (mL)
• \( V_{total} \) — Total volume after dilution (mL)

Explanation: The equation shows that the final concentration is proportional to the ratio of stock volume to total volume.

3. Importance of Dilution Calculations

Details: Accurate dilution calculations are essential in laboratory work, pharmaceutical preparations, and chemical processing to achieve desired concentrations for experiments or applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in the specified units (mg/mL for concentrations, mL for volumes). Ensure stock volume is less than or equal to total volume.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use this for serial dilutions?
A: Yes, you can calculate each step of a serial dilution by using the output concentration as the new stock concentration for the next dilution.

Q2: What if my stock volume exceeds total volume?
A: The calculator will still compute a result, but this would represent an impossible scenario where you're trying to add more stock than the final volume allows.

Q3: How precise should my measurements be?
A: For critical applications, measure volumes with precision glassware and use analytical balances for accurate stock concentrations.

Q4: Does this work for other concentration units?
A: The equation works for any consistent units (e.g., μg/mL), but the calculator is specifically set up for mg/mL.

Q5: How do I prepare the dilution physically?
A: First add the stock volume to a container, then add solvent up to the total volume mark while mixing thoroughly.