Gravitationally Induced Density Gradients near the Liquid-Liquid Critical Solution Point

Abstract

Analysis of sedimentation in a binary mixutre near a liquid-liquid critical solution point shows that, as a result of the divergence of the sedimentation rate, a density inversion occurs. At high gravitational fields (${10}^5$ normal gravity) the inversion can occur as much as 1-3 K above $T_c$. Turbulence associated with the inversion gives the appearance of phase separation.