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PCR Calculator

PCR product amplification: copies = initial x (1+E)^cycles.

Introduction

PCR Calculator — PCR product amplification: copies = initial x (1+E)^cycles. Enter Initial copies, Number of cycles, Amplification efficiency (0-1) to get an instant, accurate result.

Formula

PCR amplification: final copy number = initial copies × (1 + E)^cycles, where E is amplification efficiency (E = 1, i.e. 100%, means the amount exactly doubles every cycle) and cycles is the number of PCR cycles run.

Step-by-step

  1. Enter the Initial copies.
  2. Enter the Number of cycles.
  3. Enter the Amplification efficiency (0-1).
  4. Click Calculate to see your result instantly.

Real-world example

Example: With Initial copies = 1000, Number of cycles = 30, Amplification efficiency (0-1) = 1, the PCR Calculator gives Final Copies: 1073741824000.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 100% efficiency mean?
An efficiency of 1 (100%) means the template exactly doubles with every cycle — real-world PCR efficiency is usually somewhat below 100% due to reagent limits and reaction kinetics, especially in later cycles.
Why does amplification eventually plateau in real PCR even though this formula doesn't show it?
This formula models the ideal exponential phase; real reactions slow and plateau in later cycles as primers, dNTPs, and polymerase become limiting — this calculator does not model that plateau effect.
What inputs does the PCR Calculator need?
You'll need to provide: Initial copies, Number of cycles, Amplification efficiency (0-1). All fields use sensible defaults, so you can see a working example immediately and then adjust the values to match your own numbers.
How accurate is the PCR Calculator?
The PCR Calculator applies the formula exactly as calculated — PCR amplification: final copy number = initial copies × (1 + E)^cycles, where E is amplification efficiency (E = 1, i.e. 100%, means the amount exactly doubles every cycle) and cycles is the number of PCR cycles run. — so results are precise for the inputs you provide. Accuracy depends on entering correct, realistic input values.
Is the PCR Calculator free to use?
Yes, the PCR Calculator is completely free, requires no signup, and runs instantly in your browser.

About the PCR Calculator

The PCR Calculator uses a real, verifiable formula — PCR amplification: final copy number = initial copies × (1 + E)^cycles, where E is amplification efficiency (E = 1, i.e. 100%, means the amount exactly doubles every cycle) and cycles is the number of PCR cycles run. — so results are accurate every time, not an approximation.