1. What is the Dilution Formula?

The dilution formula calculates the final concentration of cells per mL after a dilution process. It is based on the principle of conservation of mass, where the total number of cells remains constant before and after dilution.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the dilution formula:

Where:

• \( C_f \) — Final concentration (cells/mL)
• \( C_i \) — Initial concentration (cells/mL)
• \( V_i \) — Initial volume (mL)
• \( V_f \) — Final volume (mL)

Explanation: The formula calculates how the concentration changes when a solution is diluted from an initial volume to a final volume while maintaining the same number of cells.

3. Importance of Dilution Calculations

Details: Accurate dilution calculations are crucial in cell culture, microbiology, and various laboratory procedures to achieve desired cell concentrations for experiments, assays, and clinical applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter initial concentration in cells/mL, initial volume in mL, and final volume in mL. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if I need to calculate initial concentration instead?
A: You can rearrange the formula: \( C_i = C_f \times \frac{V_f}{V_i} \)

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically precise. Accuracy depends on the precision of your input measurements and proper mixing during the dilution process.

Q3: Can this be used for serial dilutions?
A: For serial dilutions, you would need to apply this formula sequentially for each dilution step in the series.

Q4: What units should I use?
A: Consistent units are essential. Use cells/mL for concentration and mL for volume throughout the calculation.

Q5: Does this account for cell loss during dilution?
A: No, this formula assumes no cell loss during the dilution process. In practice, some cell loss may occur during pipetting and transfer.