What kind of separation does centrifugation rely on?

Centrifugation relies on density differences to separate components within a mixture. In this process, samples are placed in a centrifuge and spun at high speeds. The centrifugal force generated by the spinning action causes denser particles to move outward and settle at the bottom of the container, while less dense particles remain suspended in the fluid or rise to the top. This separation is effective for various applications, such as separating blood components, isolating cellular organelles, or purifying proteins.

The principle of density differences is fundamental in centrifugation because it directly impacts how various substances respond to the force applied. For instance, in a mixture of liquids and solids, the solid particles, which typically have a higher density than the liquid, will migrate to the bottom, creating distinct layers based on density. This ability to exploit differences in density is what makes centrifugation a valuable technique in both laboratory and industrial settings.