Question

What is the principle of centrifugation? List two daily-life uses of centrifugation.

Answer 1

Principle of centrifugation:

The technique of centrifugation operates using the concept of sedimentation, where the centrifugal force causes denser liquids and particles to travel in the radial direction outwards. Around the same time, objects with relatively low densities are displaced and pushed towards the centre. [2 marks]

Applications of centrifugation:

Centrifugation is utilised in our daily lives to separate fat from milk, to dry wet clothes in a washing machine spin tub, to separate blood cells from blood plasma, and to operate roller coasters within a theme park, etc. [0.5 marks for each use]