Definition

The process of separating mixtures by spinning them rapidly in a machine called a centrifuge, which uses force to separate different components based on their density.

Example

Centrifugation is commonly used in laboratories to separate blood components.

Conversation

I learned about centrifugation in my chemistry class today.

Oh really? What is it exactly?

It's a method to separate mixtures by spinning them really fast.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know that was how it worked.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Centrifugation → It is formed from "centrum" (from Latin, meaning center) and "fugare" (from Latin, meaning to flee or drive away). The word describes the process of driving substances away from the center, typically in a centrifuge.

Memory Tip

Think of substances 'fleeing' ('fugare') from the 'center' ('centrum') during the process of centrifugation.

Visually Confused Words