Serial Dilution Calculator

A serial dilution is a stepwise dilution of a solution that is repeated a certain number of times using the same dilution factor. It's commonly used to create a series of standards with logarithmically decreasing concentrations for calibration curves.

The dilution factor depends on your concentration range needs. Common factors are 2-fold, 5-fold, or 10-fold. A 10-fold dilution factor creates a wide range quickly, while 2-fold provides more data points in a narrower range.

This is the fundamental dilution equation where C1 is initial concentration, V1 is stock volume, C2 is final concentration, and V2 is final volume. It ensures the amount of solute remains constant during dilution.

For each step, you need Total Volume ÷ Dilution Factor of stock solution. For example, with 1000 μL total volume and 10× dilution, you need 100 μL stock + 900 μL diluent.

Common mistakes include using the wrong pipette tips, inadequate mixing between steps, cross-contamination, and calculation errors. Always use fresh tips, mix thoroughly, and double-check calculations.

Serial dilutions create logarithmic concentration series because each step multiplies the previous concentration by the same factor. This is ideal for assays with logarithmic dose-response relationships.

For the first dilution, take your calculated stock volume from the original solution and add diluent to reach the total volume. Mix thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.

The diluent should be compatible with your analyte and assay conditions. Common diluents include buffer solutions, culture media, distilled water, or PBS, depending on your specific application.