Next Day Science Blog

A Guide To Centrifuges and Microcentrifuges

A critical piece of laboratory equipment, a laboratory centrifuge is a motor-driven device that spins liquid samples at very fast speeds around a central point. The concept behind the centrifuge is that it relies on the sedimentation principle. By spinning so quickly and forcing substances inward, which is called centripetal acceleration, the substances of greater and lesser density will separate, causing sedimentation to occur. This separation allows for isolation, study, and research of specific substances. A mini-centrifuge, also called a microcentrifuge, works in the same way, but is capable of working with much smaller samples, using micro-tubes that range in size from 0.2 ml to 2.0 ml. Its compact design and smaller footprint makes it convenient to use on the workbench, while also economizing on workspace.