A centrifuge is a piece of equipment that uses rapid spinning to separate components of a mixture based on their density. It is commonly used in laboratories to separate blood components, purify cells, and isolate nucleic acids.
A spectrophotometer is an instrument used to measure the amount of light absorbed by a sample. It operates by passing light through the sample and detecting the intensity of light at different wavelengths. This is useful for determining the concentration of substances in a solution.
An autoclave is a device used to sterilize equipment and supplies by subjecting them to high-pressure saturated steam at 121°C (250°F) for a specific period of time. It is essential in laboratories and medical facilities to ensure that instruments are free from any microbial contamination.
A PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) machine, also known as a thermal cycler, is used to amplify DNA sequences. It works by cycling through different temperatures to facilitate the denaturation of DNA, annealing of primers, and extension of new DNA strands. This technique is crucial for genetic research, diagnostics, and forensic science.
A microscope is an instrument used to view objects that are too small to be seen by the naked eye. It magnifies the image of the sample using lenses or electron beams. Microscopes are essential in fields such as biology, materials science, and medical diagnostics for examining cells, tissues, and microorganisms.