Cell Passaging Calculator

Calculate split ratios, seeding densities, and passage schedules for adherent and suspension cell lines. Growth curve prediction with doubling time modeling. Data never leaves your browser.

Cell BiologyGrowth PredictionClient-Side

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Load example cell passaging data to see the full workflow

Setup

Results

Split Ratio
1:4
6,000,000 cells available
Cells / Vessel
1,500,000
1 vessel × T-75
Time to Confluence
2 days
48 hours to 80%
Volume Fraction
25.0%
of resuspended cells per vessel

Growth Curve Prediction

80%Time (h)%

Passage Schedule (Next 5)

PassageTimeWhen
P148hDay 2, ~0h
P296hDay 4, ~0h
P3144hDay 6, ~0h
P4192hDay 8, ~0h
P5240hDay 10, ~0h
  • Calculate split ratios when passaging adherent or suspension cell lines
  • Predict when cells will reach target confluence after seeding
  • Plan passage schedules for multi-day experiments
  • Determine how many vessels you can seed from a single source flask
  • Compare seeding densities across different vessel formats

Don't use for

  • Primary cell cultures with limited passage numbers — consult your cell bank protocol
  • Stem cell culture requiring specialized passaging (enzymatic vs mechanical)
  • High-throughput screens — use the Plate Map Designer instead

Understanding Split Ratios

The split ratio describes the dilution factor at passage. A 1:4 split means seeding one-quarter of the harvested cells into each new vessel.

Split ratio = (cells harvested) / (cells seeded per vessel)

Higher ratios (1:10, 1:20) are economical but delay confluence. Lower ratios (1:2, 1:3) maintain faster growth but require more frequent passages. Most standard protocols use 1:3 to 1:6 for routine maintenance.

Exponential Growth Model

Cells in log-phase follow exponential growth:

N(t) = N₀ ×\times 2^(t/Td)

Where N₀ is the initial count, t is time in hours, and Td is the doubling time. This model applies during log-phase growth (approximately 20-80% confluence). At very low or very high densities, growth deviates due to lag phase and contact inhibition, respectively.

Frequently Asked Questions