Question

A sample of milk is taken into a centrifuge to separate it into milk fat and skim milk.
Which of the following is correct based on the result of centrifugation of the sample milk?

• A. Top layer - Skim milk
  Middle layer - Milk fat
  Bottom layer - Skim milk
• B. Top layer - Skim milk
  Bottom layer - Milk fat
• C. Top layer - Milk fat
  Middle layer - Skim milk
  Bottom layer - Milk fat
• D. Top layer - Milk fat
  Bottom layer - Skim milk

Answer 1

The correct option is D Top layer - Milk fat

Bottom layer - Skim milk
Centrifuge is a device which is used to separate the components of a colloidal mixture based on the difference in their density.
In the centrifuge, the milk sample rotates at a very high speed, which separates the components of milk into milk fat and skim milk. Milk fat being less dense than skim milk, accumulates over the layer of skim milk. Therefore, top layer is of milk fat and bottom layer is of skim milk.