This tool provides a numerical value representing the force exerted on a sample during centrifugation relative to the Earth’s gravitational force. The calculation considers the rotational speed of the centrifuge, typically measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), and the radius of the rotor, which is the distance from the center of the rotor to the sample being centrifuged. The result is expressed as a multiple of ‘g’, the standard acceleration due to gravity, offering a standardized measure of the effective force applied to the sample.
The importance of accurately determining this value lies in ensuring consistent and reproducible results in biological and chemical separations. It allows researchers to compare experiments conducted on different centrifuges with varying rotor sizes and speeds. Historically, the development of this standardized measure eliminated ambiguities arising from relying solely on RPM, which is not directly proportional to the actual force experienced by the sample. Using this standardized measurement ensures experimental repeatability and facilitates data comparison across different laboratories and research settings.
