What is the function of a centrifuge in a laboratory setting?

A centrifuge is a vital piece of laboratory equipment that operates on the principle of centrifugal force. It spins samples at high speeds, allowing for the separation of components based on their density. When a mixture is placed in a centrifuge and subjected to rapid spinning, the denser materials move outward to the bottom of the container while lighter materials stay closer to the top. This separation is essential in various scientific and medical applications, such as in blood testing, where components like red blood cells, plasma, and white blood cells are separated for analysis.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of a centrifuge. Freezing samples is more aligned with a freezer's function, while heating materials pertains to equipment such as incubators or hot plates. Mixing chemicals thoroughly is typically the role of a mixer or vortexer rather than a centrifuge. Thus, the primary and most appropriate function of a centrifuge is to effectively separate heavier materials from lighter ones, making it an indispensable tool in laboratories.