centrifuge

¹cen·tri·fuge

noun \ˈsen-trə-ˌfyüj\

Definition of CENTRIFUGE

: a machine using centrifugal force for separating substances of different densities, for removing moisture, or for simulating gravitational effects

Origin of CENTRIFUGE

French, from centrifuge centrifugal, from New Latin centrifugus

First Known Use: 1887

Other Mechanical Engineering Terms

differential, flange, lathe, linchpin, pinion, plenum, ratchet, traction

Rhymes with CENTRIFUGE

calcifuge, febrifuge, subterfuge, vermifuge

²centrifuge

transitive verb

centrifugedcentrifug·ing

Definition of CENTRIFUGE

: to subject to centrifugal action especially in a centrifuge

First Known Use of CENTRIFUGE

circa 1895

Other Chemical Engineering Terms

alkali, cation, decant, hygroscopic, isotope, oxidize, slurry, solute, viscous

centrifuge

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Machine that applies a sustained centrifugal force. Effectively, the centrifuge substitutes a similar, stronger force for that of gravity. Every centrifuge contains a spinning vessel; there are many configurations, depending on use. A revolving object exerts a force away from the centre of rotation (see Newton's laws of motion), called the centrifugal force; it is usually stated as so many “times gravity” or so many “G,” and may range from a few G for the basket in a home washing machine or an industrial separator to hundreds of thousands of G for centrifuges to separate isotopes of uranium or to purify vaccines.