1. What is a Serial Dilution Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the final concentration of a solution after performing a series of dilutions.

Purpose: It helps scientists, lab technicians, and researchers accurately prepare diluted solutions for experiments and analyses.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( C_n \) — Final concentration after dilution (mg/ml)
• \( C_0 \) — Initial concentration (mg/ml)
• \( DF \) — Dilution factor (unitless)
• \( n \) — Number of serial dilutions (unitless)

Explanation: The initial concentration is divided by the dilution factor raised to the power of the number of dilutions.

3. Importance of Serial Dilution Calculations

Details: Accurate dilution calculations are crucial for preparing standard solutions, creating concentration gradients, and ensuring experimental reproducibility.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the initial concentration in mg/ml, dilution factor (default 2), and number of dilutions (default 1). All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical dilution factor?
A: Common dilution factors are 2 (1:1 dilution), 10 (1:9 dilution), or 100 (1:99 dilution), but any factor ≥1 can be used.

Q2: How do I calculate the dilution factor?
A: DF = (final volume)/(aliquot volume). For example, adding 1ml to 9ml gives DF = 10.

Q3: Why does the concentration decrease exponentially?
A: Each dilution step multiplies the previous dilution, leading to exponential reduction in concentration.

Q4: Can I use this for non-metric units?
A: Yes, but all units must be consistent (e.g., use μg/μl throughout if not using mg/ml).

Q5: How precise are these calculations?
A: The math is exact, but actual concentrations depend on pipetting accuracy and solution homogeneity.