When to use this calculator
Estimate solvent addition needed to dilute a fixed stock-solution volume. Assumes additive volumes and no reaction; precise volumetric preparation uses a final-volume mark.
Explore the concentration & mixtures calculators for other questions in this topic. For a related calculation, use the Solvent Mass From Molality Calculator: Find solvent mass for an entered molality and solute amount.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Solvent Addition for Dilution: a worked example
The values below are an illustrative example, not a recommendation. Replace them with measurements or assumptions that match your question.
| Input | Example value |
|---|---|
| Stock solution volume (mL) | 100 |
| Stock concentration | 1 |
| Target concentration | 0.25 |
| Result | 300 mL |
- Check the input labels and enter the example values above.
- Apply the relationship: Added solvent ≈ stock volume × (stock concentration/target−1).
- The result is 300 mL, rounded for display.
How to interpret your result
Assumes additive volumes and no reaction; precise volumetric preparation uses a final-volume mark.
Keep mass, amount and volume definitions separate. Molarity uses final solution volume; molality uses solvent mass. A dilution cannot increase concentration without some process beyond adding solvent.
Frequently asked questions
Are molarity and molality interchangeable?
No. Molarity is amount per solution volume, while molality is amount per solvent mass.
When is the solvent addition for dilution calculator useful?
Estimate solvent addition needed to dilute a fixed stock-solution volume. Assumes additive volumes and no reaction; precise volumetric preparation uses a final-volume mark.
How do I use the solvent addition for dilution calculator?
Enter stock solution volume (ml), stock concentration, target concentration. The result updates automatically. Use the units shown beside each input; the example values illustrate the method.
Which formula does this calculator use?
Added solvent ≈ stock volume × (stock concentration/target−1).
What should I check before using the result?
Assumes additive volumes and no reaction; precise volumetric preparation uses a final-volume mark.
How are results rounded?
Scalar numbers display up to six decimal places, with scientific notation for very large or small values. Text, fraction, date and schedule outputs use the format described on the tool. Intermediate calculations use JavaScript floating-point arithmetic. Keep sensible precision for your measurements.
Further reading
For background on this topic, see OpenStax: molarity and dilution ↗. This is a topic reference, not an external review or endorsement of this tool.
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