How this calculator works
Specify the denominator before interpreting a percentage. Mass-volume percent means grams per 100 mL; mass percent means grams per 100 g; volume percent means mL per 100 mL final solution. Mass-volume mode also converts to g/L and mg/L. A supplied solution density converts that mass-volume value to actual ppm and ppb by mass. Equal numeric mg/L and ppm require density 1 kg/L. Volume contraction and dissolved-solute displacement are not inferred.
Formula
% w/v = mass(g)/volume(mL) x 100. % w/w = 100 msolute/msolution. % v/v = 100 Vsolute/Vsolution. ppm by mass = mass fraction x 10^6.
Worked example
Ten grams in 1 L is 1% w/v, 10 g/L and 10000 mg/L. Twenty-five mL of a liquid in a final 100 mL solution is 25% v/v.
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Frequently asked questions
Does 1% always mean 10 g/L?
Only 1% w/v has that direct conversion. A mass percentage needs solution density.
Can w/v percent exceed 100?
It can exceed 100 g per 100 mL for a sufficiently dense solution; it is not a dimensionless mass fraction.
Are ppm and mg/L interchangeable?
Only under a specified density approximation. This tool uses the entered density for ppm by mass.