Cell Doubling Time Calculator

How Cell Doubling Time is Calculated

Calculating the doubling time of cells can be done when you know the initial reference parameter, the final reference parameter, and the time duration. The formula you would then use is:

• FR = Final Reference


• IR = Initial Reference

Understanding Your Results

Your result will be the total amount of time required for the cells to double. You can even enter a final value that is more than double the initial value which is where this tool can come more in handy for calculating.

How to Use the Doubling Time Calculator

We tried to make this tool as easy to use as possible. The steps required to use it include:

1. Enter the initial reference parameter, or the initial number of observed cells.


2. Then enter the final reference parameter, or the number of cells observed at the end.


3. Enter the amount of time that has passed. Be sure to edit the unit of time measurement, by default it is set to hours but can be measured in smaller units if needed.


4. Hit calculate and get your cell doubling time in just a second!

Example Calculation

Let's say we are studying a dish of cells. When we start the timer we know the initial reference value is 500. After 6 hours, we count a final reference value of 2,974. We can use this tool to calculate the cell doubling time. First we will enter the initial reference value of 500 then we will enter 2,974 into the final reference value field. We can then enter 6 into the time duration field and change the unit of measurement from minutes to hours.

We are now ready to hit calculate our doubling time. We get an answer of 2 hours 19 minutes and 56 seconds.