Planar Chromatography Techniques Quiz

Stationary Phase in Chromatography

• In paper chromatography, the stationary phase is the cellulose paper, which acts as the medium where substances separate based on their affinity to the paper.
• In thin layer chromatography (TLC), the stationary phase is a thin layer of an adsorbent, commonly silica gel or alumina, applied to a plate, facilitating the separation of components based on their interactions with the stationary material.

Mobile Phase in Chromatography

• In gas chromatography, the mobile phase is an inert gas, typically helium or nitrogen, that carries the vaporized sample through the column for separation based on volatilities.
• In liquid chromatography, the mobile phase is a liquid solvent or a mixture of solvents that transports the sample through the stationary phase, allowing for separation based on solubility and interaction with the stationary material.

Discovery in Chromatography

• Column chromatography was discovered by the Russian botanist Mikhail Tswett in the early 20th century, who developed the technique for separating plant pigments.