🧪 PPM Calculator
Relate parts-per-million to mg/L, mass, and solution volume.
Ideal for chemists, aquarists, and environmental engineers dealing with trace concentrations.
Solute amount dissolved in the solution.
Total volume of the solution.
Use 1 kg/L for water; adjust for other liquids.
Used for reverse calculations (mass/volume).
Concentration from Mass & Volume
PPM: 5
mg/L (at density 1 kg/L): 5
Mass & Volume for Target PPM
mg/L at target PPM: 5
Required mass for 10 L: 50 mg
Volume needed for 50 mg at target PPM: 10 L
How to Use This Calculator
Enter mass, volume, and density
Provide the solute mass (mg), solution volume (L), and density (kg/L—use 1 for dilute aqueous solutions).
Review calculated PPM
The calculator outputs PPM and mg/L equivalents instantly.
Use reverse planning
Set a target PPM to see how much solute to add or how much solution volume you need for that concentration.
Formula
PPM = (Mass (mg) ÷ Volume (L))
mg/L = PPM × Density (kg/L)
Mass (mg) = PPM × Volume (L)
Volume (L) = Mass (mg) ÷ PPM
Use the formula breakdown to confirm the calculation logic or perform the conversion manually if needed.
Full Description
Parts per million (PPM) expresses very dilute concentrations, common in water treatment, air quality, and chemical analysis. For aqueous solutions near room temperature, 1 PPM ≈ 1 mg/L; denser liquids need density adjustments.
This calculator supports both directions: find PPM from lab measurements, and determine how much solute or solvent you need to hit a target concentration. It keeps the math precise so your dosing stays accurate.
Use it when preparing nutrient solutions, testing aquarium chemistry, or interpreting environmental compliance reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1 PPM always equal to 1 mg/L?
Only when the solution density is exactly 1 kg/L, which is close for fresh water. Adjust density for more accurate results with other liquids.
What volume unit should I use?
Enter solution volume in liters. Convert from mL or gallons first if needed for consistency.
Can I work with micrograms?
Yes. Convert micrograms to milligrams before entering, or scale the formulas—1 mg = 1,000 µg.
Does the calculator handle gaseous concentrations?
It is designed for liquids. Gas PPM calculations typically use volume ratios at standard conditions.