Serial Dilution & Plate Count Simulation

Explore the fundamental microbiological technique of serial dilution and learn how to accurately calculate bacterial concentration through interactive virtual experiments.

Simulation Instructions

This simulation mimics the serial dilution process to count bacteria in an original sample.
1. 1 ml of original sample is taken and added to the first dilution tube (9 ml solvent).
2. The process is repeated to reach dilution factors from 10⁻¹ to 10⁻¹⁰.
3. Click on a test tube to plate (inoculate) onto a petri dish.
4. Count the visible colonies and use the calculator below to find CFU/mL.

Sample Status
E. coli Bacteria
Original Concentration (Hidden):
??? CFU/mL

1 Serial Dilution Process

Original Sample
Undiluted
-1ml

2 Incubation Results (Plating)

Click one of the tubes above to see results.
No sample selected
Bacterial Colony
Agar Media

3 Calculator & Analysis

*Valid statistical range: 30 - 300 colonies