The definition of centrifugation is the process of separating substances of different densities from a mixture with the help of a centrifuge.
Centrifuge
We know how sedimentation works. The heavy particles will drop to the bottom and settle, but if the particles are too light this can take a long time.
We can use a centrifuge to speed up this process and separate the solids from the liquids.
In a centrifuge we rotate the substances and they experience a centrifugal force. This pushes the heavier substances from the centre to the walls of the tube.
We can alter the amount of centrifugal force by changing the mass of the particles or the speed of rotation.
I.e. the faster we spin and the bigger the particles the greater the centrifugal force.
We use centrifuging for a number of different things.
We use it to separate cream and skim milk from full cream milk.
