Paper chromatography

What is paper chromatography used for?

Paper chromatography is used to separate and identify different components in a mixture.

What is the stationary phase in paper chromatography?

The stationary phase is the paper itself, which acts as a surface for the components to interact with.

What is the mobile phase in paper chromatography?

The mobile phase is the solvent that moves up the paper, carrying the components of the mixture with it.

Why do different substances move at different rates during chromatography?

Different substances interact differently with the stationary phase and the mobile phase, causing them to move at different speeds.

What would happen if the solvent front reached the top of the paper?

The components of the mixture would not be separated effectively and could overlap or mix.

How do you identify the components of a mixture using chromatography?

By comparing the distances traveled by the components (Rf value) to known standards.

What is an Rf value in chromatography?

The Rf value is the ratio of the distance traveled by the substance to the distance traveled by the solvent.

How can you improve the separation of components in chromatography?

By using a more suitable solvent or adjusting the conditions (e.g., temperature, time).

What is the purpose of using a pencil to draw the baseline in chromatography?

A pencil mark is used because it doesn't dissolve in the solvent, unlike ink, which could interfere with the experiment.

How can chromatography be used to test the purity of a substance?

If the sample is pure, it will produce only one spot on the paper; impurities will cause additional spots.

Why is it important to keep the solvent level below the baseline in paper chromatography?

To prevent the sample from dissolving directly into the solvent and mixing with it.

How do you use chromatography to identify an unknown substance?

By comparing the Rf values of the unknown substance to known standards and matching them.

What are some real-world applications of chromatography?

It is used in forensics, food quality control, and drug testing.

How can chromatography separate a mixture of dyes in ink?

Different dyes will have different solubilities in the solvent, causing them to travel at different speeds.

What factors can affect the separation of substances in chromatography?

The choice of solvent, temperature, time, and type of paper.