Question: The ultracentrifuge is an important tool for separating and analyzing proteins. Because of the enormous centripetal accelerations, the centrifuge must be carefully balanced, with each

The ultracentrifuge is an important tool for separating and analyzing proteins. Because of the enormous centripetal accelerations, the centrifuge must be carefully balanced, with each sample matched by a sample of identical mass on the opposite side. Any difference in the masses of opposing samples creates a net force on the shaft of the rotor, potentially leading to a catastrophic failure of the apparatus. Suppose a scientist makes a slight error in sample preparation and one sample has a mass 10 mg larger than the opposing sample. If the samples are 12 cm from the axis of the rotor and the ultracentrifuge spins at 70,000 rpm, what is the magnitude of the net force on the rotor due to the unbalanced samples?

Step by Step Solution

3.42 Rating (171 Votes )

There are 3 Steps involved in it

1 Expert Approved Answer
Step: 1 Unlock

Model Assume uniform circular motion Visualize We expect the centripetal acceleration to be ver... View full answer

blur-text-image
Question Has Been Solved by an Expert!

Get step-by-step solutions from verified subject matter experts

Step: 2 Unlock
Step: 3 Unlock

Document Format (2 attachments)

PDF file Icon

1442_6054778b4cbf5_685185.pdf

180 KBs PDF File

Word file Icon

1442_6054778b4cbf5_685185.docx

120 KBs Word File

Students Have Also Explored These Related Physics Scientists and Engineers Questions!