Dilute a 5 M Stock to 1 M — How Much Stock Needed?
To prepare 500 mL of a 1 M solution from a 5 M stock, use the C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ equation to find the required volume of stock.
How to use this tool
- Enter initial concentration c₁, initial volume v₁, final concentration c₂ and final volume v₂ in the fields above.
- Results update instantly as you type — or click Calculate.
- Read your final concentration c₂ and the full breakdown beneath it.
Concentrated stock solutions require careful dilution; this example shows how to calculate exactly how much stock is needed for your target concentration.
Frequently asked questions
- What does 'solvent to add' mean?
- It is V₂ − V₁: the volume of pure solvent (usually water) you need to add to the stock to reach the target volume and concentration.
- Can C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ be used for concentrating a solution?
- Yes — if you evaporate solvent (V₂ < V₁), C₂ > C₁. The solvent to add will be negative, indicating solvent removed.