Summary
Separates mixtures, such as pigments, by their different movement through a stationary phase.
In depth
Paper and thin-layer chromatography separate pigments by solubility and attraction to the medium; Rf = distance moved by solute / distance moved by solvent. Gas and liquid chromatography are used for analysis.
The stationary phase is paper or silica; the mobile phase is solvent. Compounds travel according to solubility and affinity. Rf values are characteristic.
Remember: mark the origin in pencil, not ink.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chromatography?
Separates mixtures, such as pigments, by their different movement through a stationary phase.
Which area of biology covers Chromatography, and how advanced is it?
Chromatography is one of the 51 topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Laboratory Automation, Cell Fractionation, Staining Techniques.
Can you give an example of Chromatography?
Separating chlorophyll a, b and carotenoids from leaf extract.
What should I learn before Chromatography?
Work through the Beginner topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics first, such as Scientific Method, Hypothesis, Variables, then return to Chromatography. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Chromatography?
The closest topics to Chromatography are Laboratory Automation, Cell Fractionation, Staining Techniques, FRET. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Chromatography?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Chromatography. To practise the whole of Lab Methods & Biostatistics, use the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz.
How is Chromatography different from Laboratory Automation?
Chromatography: Separates mixtures, such as pigments, by their different movement through a stationary phase. Laboratory Automation: Robotics and high-throughput screening let thousands of experiments run in parallel. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Chromatography step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Laboratory Automation and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.