Centrifuge
Centrifuge
A Centrifuge (pronounced: sen-tri-fyooj) is a laboratory device that is used to separate fluids, gas or liquid, based on density. Separation is achieved by spinning a vessel containing material at high speed; the centrifugal force pushes heavier materials to the outside of the vessel.
Etymology
The term "Centrifuge" comes from the Latin centrum, meaning "center", and fugere, meaning "to flee".
Usage
In the medical field, a centrifuge is often used for the separation of plasma from blood cells in blood samples, and the separation of DNA for genetic testing. It can also be used in the preparation of samples for microscopy.
Types of Centrifuges
There are several types of centrifuges used in medical and laboratory settings:
- Microcentrifuge - A small centrifuge used for small samples, such as cellular and molecular applications.
- Ultracentrifuge - A larger centrifuge used for the separation of biological molecules.
- Refrigerated Centrifuge - A centrifuge with a cooling system to maintain samples at a specific temperature.
Related Terms
- Centrifugation - The process of using a centrifuge to separate particles from a solution.
- Rotor - The spinning part of a centrifuge that holds the samples.
- Sedimentation - The process by which particles settle to the bottom of a liquid.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Centrifuge
- Wikipedia's article - Centrifuge
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