Calculadora de Fator de Diluição
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
Formula
DF = Vf/Vi ; Cf = Ci/DF
About this calculator
The Dilution Factor Calculator is a practical tool for professionals and students in chemistry, biology, and related fields. It calculates the dilution factor (DF) from the initial and final volumes of a solution, or determines the final concentration after dilution. The dilution factor is the ratio of final volume to initial volume (DF = Vf / Vi). Knowing the DF, the final concentration is obtained by dividing the initial concentration by the DF (Cf = Ci / DF). The calculator allows you to input two known values and obtain the third, streamlining routine laboratory calculations.
How it works: the calculator implements the formulas DF = Vf / Vi and Cf = Ci / DF. The user provides three of the four parameters (Vi, Vf, Ci, Cf) and the tool calculates the fourth. For example, if you have 10 mL of a 2 M solution and dilute to 50 mL, DF is 5 (50/10) and the final concentration is 0.4 M (2/5). The interface is simple: fields for volumes and concentrations, with unit selection (mL, L, M, mM, etc.). Results are displayed instantly, with rounding options for decimal places.
When to use: this calculator is essential when preparing diluted solutions from stock solutions, common in clinical, pharmaceutical, environmental, and research analyses. It is also useful for students checking dilution series exercises or calculating dilution factors in experimental protocols. Real cases include diluting a standard for a calibration curve, preparing a working solution from a concentrate, or adjusting reagent concentration for a specific assay.
Cautions: always check volume and concentration units before use. The formula assumes simple dilution (addition of pure solvent) and that volumes are additive, which may not hold for very concentrated solutions or those with intermolecular interactions. Remember that the dilution factor is dimensionless, but concentrations must be in the same unit. For serial dilutions, the total factor is the product of individual factors. Avoid confusing dilution factor with dilution ratio (e.g., 1:10).
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between dilution factor and dilution ratio?
Dilution factor (DF) is the ratio of final volume to initial volume (DF = Vf/Vi), while dilution ratio is often expressed as 1:10, meaning 1 part solution to 9 parts solvent. The corresponding DF would be 10.
Can I use the calculator for serial dilutions?
Yes, but each step must be calculated separately. The total dilution factor is the product of the factors of each step. For example, two 1:10 dilutions result in a total DF of 100.
What if volumes are not additive?
The calculator assumes additive volumes, which is valid for dilute solutions. For concentrated solutions, volume contraction or expansion may occur, and the calculated DF may be approximate. In such cases, consider using masses or densities.
How do I convert between concentration units (M, mM, etc.)?
The calculator allows you to select the concentration unit. If you input concentration in M and want the result in mM, convert manually or use the calculator with consistent units. For example, 1 M = 1000 mM.
Does the calculator work for dilutions of strong acids or bases?
Yes, as long as the dilution is simple and the concentration is not extremely high. Remember that concentrated acids and bases can generate heat and require safety precautions.