supernatant

noun

Pronunciation: /ˌsuːpərˈneɪtənt/

Definition

The clear liquid that remains above a solid residue after a mixture has been centrifuged or allowed to settle.

Examples

• The researcher carefully decanted the supernatant into a clean test tube.

• After the precipitate formed at the bottom, the supernatant was analyzed for remaining chemical traces.

• Ensure the centrifuge is balanced before separating the supernatant from the solid pellet.

Synonyms of supernatant

Words with a similar meaning to supernatant:

• liquid
• fluid
• filtrate

Antonyms of supernatant

Words with the opposite meaning to supernatant:

• precipitate
• sediment

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