1. What is Centrifuge G-Force?

Relative centrifugal force (RCF or g-force) is the measurement of the acceleration applied to a sample in a centrifuge. It represents how many times greater the acceleration is compared to Earth's gravity and is crucial for proper sample separation in laboratory applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the centrifuge g-force formula:

Where:

• \( g \) — Relative centrifugal force (times gravity)
• \( r \) — Radius from center of rotation to sample (cm)
• \( RPM \) — Rotations per minute (rev/min)
• \( 1.118 \) — Conversion constant

Explanation: The formula converts rotational speed (RPM) to relative centrifugal force by accounting for the radius and the squared relationship between rotational speed and centrifugal acceleration.

3. Importance of G-Force Calculation

Details: Accurate g-force calculation is essential for reproducible laboratory results, proper sample separation, protocol standardization, and ensuring experimental consistency across different centrifuge models and laboratories.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the radius in centimeters (measure from center of rotor to sample tube) and RPM value. Both values must be positive numbers. The radius is typically provided in centrifuge specifications or can be measured directly.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is g-force more important than RPM?
A: G-force accounts for both rotational speed and radius, providing a standardized measure of separation force that allows comparison between different centrifuges with different rotor sizes.

Q2: How do I measure the radius accurately?
A: Measure from the center of the centrifuge rotor to the bottom of the sample tube when it's in the horizontal position (for swinging bucket rotors) or to the middle of the sample (for fixed angle rotors).

Q3: What is a typical g-force range for common applications?
A: Cell pelleting: 200-500g, DNA/RNA precipitation: 10,000-16,000g, Protein precipitation: 15,000-30,000g, Ultracentrifugation: up to 1,000,000g.

Q4: Can I use this formula for any centrifuge?
A: Yes, this formula works for all centrifuges, but always verify with manufacturer specifications as some may provide conversion charts or specific constants.

Q5: Why is the RPM squared in the formula?
A: Centrifugal acceleration is proportional to the square of angular velocity, which relates directly to RPM squared in the calculation.