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What is the purpose of paper chromatography?

To separate plant pigments.

Where is the pigment applied on the chromatography paper?

On the line near the bottom of the paper.

Should the pigment spot touch the solvent?

No

Why must the pigment spot stay above the solvent?

So the pigments separate on the paper instead of dissolving directly into the solvent.

Why is the pigment applied several times?

To make the spot more concentrated and easier to see.

What happens after the chromatography paper is placed in the solvent?

The solvent moves up the paper.

What causes the pigments to separate?

Different pigments travel different distances in the solvent.

When should the chromatography paper be removed?

When the solvent front reaches the top line.

What measurements are taken at the end of the experiment?

Distance traveled by the solvent and distance traveled by each pigment.

What is the formula for Rf?

Rf = distance traveled by pigment ÷ distance traveled by solvent.

What color is chlorophyll a?

Blue-green

What color is chlorophyll b?

Olive-green

What color is xanthophyll?

Yellow

What color is beta-carotene?

Bright orange-yellow

What moves up the chromatography paper?

The solvent