Cell Dilution Calculator

Calculate precise cell dilutions with step by step guidance for single and serial workflows using C1V1 equals C2V2 logic with viability correction export results to CSV or PDF view clear tables validate units and volumes and build repeatable protocols for labs classrooms and bioprocess teams Includes example data interactive graph and printable PDF summaries

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Inputs
Units: cells/mL or similar
Same units as C1
Total volume after dilution
Adjust C1 by viability
Results
Source volume (V1)
— mL
Diluent to add
— mL
Dilution factor
—
Inputs
cells/mL
cells/mL
e.g., 10 for tenfold
Total after mixing
Adjust start concentration
Leave blank to auto-calc
Serial Dilution Plan Sample volume = tube volume / step factor
Step Take sample Add diluent Cumulative factor Approx concentration
Example Data
Scenario Start Target Factor Tube volume Steps
Tenfold series to reduce two logs 1.0×107 cells/mL 1.0×105 cells/mL 10 1 mL 2
Fivefold series to reduce one log 5.0×106 cells/mL 1.0×106 cells/mL 5 2 mL 1
Twofold series to reduce three steps 8.0×105 cells/mL 1.0×105 cells/mL 2 0.5 mL 3
Use these as templates then enter your own values above.
Formulas used

Single dilution (C1V1 = C2V2)

  • Source volume: V1 = (C2 × V2) ÷ C1
  • Diluent volume: Vdiluent = V2 − V1
  • Dilution factor: DF = C1 ÷ C2

Serial dilution

  • Per-step factor: F (e.g., 10 for tenfold; 2 for twofold)
  • Sample volume each step: Vsample = Vtube ÷ F
  • Diluent each step: Vdiluent = Vtube − Vsample
  • Cumulative factor after step k: Fk
  • Approx. concentration after step k: Ck = Cstart ÷ Fk

Viability adjustment

  • Effective stock concentration: C1,eff = C1 × (viability% ÷ 100)

Ensure units are consistent across inputs. Values are provided for planning and documentation; verify experimentally where appropriate.

Made for labs needing reliable dilution plans and clean documentation.