In many of the steps in the lab, a mixture was centrifuged and then decanted. In general terms, what is accomplished by these steps? In what kind of situation would these steps not be able to separate two compounds?

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Chemistry

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5 December, 18:56

In many of the steps in the lab, a mixture was centrifuged and then decanted. In general terms, what is accomplished by these steps? In what kind of situation would these steps not be able to separate two compounds?

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Augustus Lin · Answer 1

to separate the compounds by gravity

Explanation:

Centrifuging is the process of separating compound in a liquid mixture by means of gravity and settling. This makes use of the density principle. In the process, the sample is added to the centrifuge. This is then rotated at a certain speed, say 50 rpm. The circular motion creates a force of gravity that pulls the compounds downwards. This then separate the compounds. The heaviest and most dense go down first, then the lighter particles on the top.