Whats meant by sedimentation coefficient?
It is a constant figure presenting the Velocity of sedimentation divided by the acceleration of the force field in centrifugation. The sedimentation coefficient depends on the molecular weight (larger proteins sediment faster) and also on molecular shape. Unfolded proteins or one with highly elongated shapes will experience more hydrodynamic friction, and thus will have smaller sedimentation coefficients than a folded, globular protein of the same molecular weight.
