centrifugation Flashcards
intro
It is the process that involves the use of centrifugal force for the separation of two immiscible liquids
or separation of solid from liquids.
process
This process is used to separate two miscible substances, but also to analyze
the hydrodynamic properties of macromolecules. More-dense components of the mixture migrate away from
the axis of the centrifuge, while less-dense components of the mixture migrate towards the axis. Chemists and
biologists may increase the effective gravitational force on a test tube so as to more rapidly and completely
cause the precipitate (pellet) to gather on the bottom of the tube. The remaining solution (supernatant) may be
discarded with a pipette.
principle
The centrifuge works using the sedimentation principle, where the centripetal acceleration causes
denser substances and particles to move outward in the radial direction. At the same time, objects that are less
dense are displaced and move to the center.
unit
rev/min
factors affecting
The particle setting velocity in centrifugation is in function of following things.
Centrifugation acceleration
Volume fraction of solids
Density difference between solids and liquids
Viscosity of liquids
application
It is used in the purification of oil.
It is used to purify enzymes.
Blood plasma is separated from blood cells by centrifugation.
Other organic and inorganic compounds are purified by this method.
It is used in separating the chalk powder from water.
It is used to removing fat from milk to produce skimmed milk.
It is used in drug manufacturing and processes.
Used in the sugar industry to separate the sugar crystals from the mother liquor.
Pharmaceutically used for:
o Determination of molecular weight of colloids.
o Evaluation of suspensions and emulsions.
o Production of biological products.
o Production of bulk drugs.
o Determination of blood components
