G Force Calculator

In biochemistry labs as well as molecular biology and materials science labs, centrifugation remains a critical procedure for separating suspended particles from liquids. The key parameter known as relative centrifugal force (RCF) or g-force plays an essential role in centrifugation processes. The force exerted on particles during centrifugation defines the process and determines how efficiently the particles are separated. Our g-force calculator enables users to convert between RCF and revolutions per minute of rotor (RPM).

G Force Calculator

Revolutions per minute of rotor (RPM)

Radius of rotor (cm)

Relative Centrifugal Force (RCF) or g force

Calculate RPM and RCF

How do I use the g-force calculator?

• To calculate RCF: Enter the RPM and the Rotor Radius. Click Calculate to get the result in g-force.
• To calculate RPM: Enter the RCF and the Rotor Radius. Click Calculate to get the result in RPM.

What is Relative Centrifugal Force?

RCF is a measure of the acceleration applied to particles during centrifugation, expressed as a multiple of the force of gravity (g). RCF is determined by two main factors:

1. Revolutions Per Minute (RPM): The speed at which the centrifuge rotor spins.
2. Radius of the rotor (r): The distance from the center of the rotor to the sample tube.

RCF quantifies the force acting on particles as they move in the centrifuge rotor, which affects how efficiently substances separate in different applications, such as in biological sample preparation or material synthesis. Understanding RCF is critical to achieving optimal separation and avoiding issues like damage to sensitive biological samples or incomplete separation.

Formula for RCF Calculation

The relationship between RPM, RCF, and the radius of the rotor can be expressed mathematically with the following formula:

RCF=(RPM)²×1.118×10^-5×r

• RCF = Relative Centrifugal Force (g)
• RPM = Revolutions per minute
• r = Radius of the rotor (in centimeters)

This equation allows researchers to calculate the RCF required for any specific centrifugation protocol, provided the RPM and rotor radius are known.

How can the RPM be calculated from RCF?

When RCF is provided and the rotor radius (r) is known, it is possible to calculate the required RPM using the following formula:

RPM=√RCF/(r×1.118×10^-5)

This inverse calculation is crucial in experimental setups where specific centrifugal forces are needed to separate components effectively.