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10 Fold Serial Dilution Formula:
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10-fold serial dilution is a laboratory technique used to reduce the concentration of a solution by a factor of 10 at each dilution step. This method is commonly used in microbiology, biochemistry, and analytical chemistry to create a series of solutions with known concentration ratios.
The calculator uses the serial dilution formula:
Where:
Explanation: Each dilution step reduces the concentration by a factor of 10, so after n steps, the concentration is reduced by 10^n times.
Details: Serial dilution is essential for creating standard curves, determining unknown concentrations, preparing samples for analysis, and ensuring accurate measurements in various scientific experiments and diagnostic tests.
Tips: Enter the initial concentration in molarity (M) and the number of dilution steps (n). Both values must be valid (concentration > 0, n ≥ 0).
Q1: What is the purpose of serial dilution?
A: Serial dilution is used to create a series of solutions with precisely known concentration ratios, which is essential for quantitative analysis and calibration.
Q2: How accurate is serial dilution?
A: The accuracy depends on proper technique, including precise pipetting and thorough mixing at each step. Proper technique can achieve high accuracy.
Q3: Can I use this for other dilution factors?
A: This calculator is specifically for 10-fold dilutions. For other dilution factors, the formula would be Concentration_n = Concentration_0 / (dilution_factor)^n.
Q4: What are common applications of serial dilution?
A: Common applications include bacterial culture counting, PCR preparation, drug sensitivity testing, and creating standard solutions for analytical instruments.
Q5: How should I handle very small concentrations?
A: For very small concentrations, ensure proper mixing and consider using smaller dilution factors or additional techniques to maintain accuracy.