TLC chromotagraphy

What material can be used as a stationary phase?

Silica gel

Which pigment would be the least polar?

The one that is the most soluble and travels the furthest

Why do you hold the TLC plate carefully and avoid damaging the surface of the plate?

Movement of spots not affected, and so plates aren’t contaminated by fingerprints or oils from skin

Why do you make sure the plate doesn’t touch the sides of the jar anywhere else?

Liquid or solvent on the sides may affect movement of spots

Why is it important to work very quickly with photosynthetic pigments?

To avoid degradation and contamination of pigments, reduce evaporation of solvent (propane)

Why are buffer solutions important? (NOT TLC)

To maintain optimum pH, optimum pH for enzymes and proteins

How can you increase the intensity of spots?

Let the spot dry, add another spot, evaporate the solvent