Question

Explain the principle of chromatography.

Answer 1

Chromatography:

Chromatography is an important biophysical technique that enables the separation, identification, and purification of the component of a mixture for qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Principle of Chromatography -

1. The principle of chromatography is based on the continuous differential partitioning of components of a mixture between stationary and mobile phases.
2. The components of a mixture are separated when the mixture which is present in mobile phase is moved through a stationary phase.
3. In this process, the mixture of substances is applied onto a stationary phase which may be a solid, liquid or a gas.
4. A pure solvent, a mixture of solvents, or a gas is allowed to move slowly over the stationary phase.
5. The components of the mixture get gradually separated from one another.
6. The moving phase is called the mobile phase.

Examples of Chromatography -

1. Separation of small amounts of products in chemical reactions.
2. Separation of colored samples from mixtures such as ink, dyes, pigments of flower, etc.