centrífuga

A centrífuga is a laboratory instrument used to separate components of a mixture based on their density. It operates by spinning samples at high speeds, creating a centrifugal force that pushes denser substances outward while less dense materials remain closer to the center. This principle is widely applied in various scientific and industrial fields, including biochemistry, medicine, and chemistry.

The basic design of a centrífuga consists of a rotor, which holds sample containers, and a motor that drives the rotor at high rotational speeds, typically measured in revolutions per minute (RPM) or gravitational force (g). The centrifugal force generated can range from low-speed models (a few hundred RPM) to ultracentrifuges capable of speeds exceeding 100,000 RPM, producing forces thousands of times greater than gravity.

Common applications include blood separation in clinical laboratories, where red blood cells, white blood cells, and plasma are isolated for diagnostic purposes. In molecular biology, centrífugas are used to pellet DNA, RNA, or proteins from solutions, facilitating further analysis. Industrial uses include clarifying liquids, such as in food processing or wastewater treatment.

Modern centrífugas vary in size, capacity, and speed, with refrigerated models maintaining low temperatures to preserve sensitive samples. Safety features, such as balanced rotors and enclosed containment, are essential to prevent accidents. Proper use involves careful calibration, balancing of samples, and adherence to operational guidelines to ensure accuracy and safety.