A centrifuge is a machine that uses rapid spinning to separate substances of different densities. It works by applying centrifugal force, which pushes heavier materials outward while lighter materials remain closer to the center. This process is commonly used in laboratories, medical settings, and industrial applications to separate liquids from solids or to isolate specific components from mixtures. Centrifuges come in various types, including tabletop centrifuges and ultracentrifuges, each designed for specific tasks. In medical laboratories, they are often used to separate blood components, such as plasma and red blood cells, for diagnostic testing. The efficiency of a centrifuge makes it an essential tool in scientific research and clinical diagnostics.