What is centrifugation?

Centrifugation is a process that separates solids from liquids and liquids of different densities from each other by using centrifugal force. Centrifugation is carried out inside a centrifuge.

Centrifuges are commonly used in laboratories to separate solutions. A scientist places the solution to be separated inside a sealed container. The container is placed securely inside the centrifuge, which spins the container at a high speed. Less dense liquids move to the outside of the container as the solution spins, and solids drop to the bottom during the centrifugation process. The lighter liquids are carefully poured or siphoned out of the container, which leaves the more dense fluid behind.