What is the primary principle behind the use of thin-layer chromatography (TLC)
Practice Questions
Q1
What is the primary principle behind the use of thin-layer chromatography (TLC) for qualitative analysis?
Separation based on boiling point
Separation based on solubility
Separation based on size
Separation based on charge
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
What is the primary principle behind the use of thin-layer chromatography (TLC) for qualitative analysis?
Step 1: Understand that thin-layer chromatography (TLC) is a method used to separate different substances in a mixture.
Step 2: Know that there are two phases in TLC: the stationary phase (the surface where substances are placed) and the mobile phase (the solvent that moves up the plate).
Step 3: Realize that compounds in the mixture will move at different rates depending on how well they dissolve in the mobile phase and how much they stick to the stationary phase.
Step 4: Remember that compounds that are more soluble in the mobile phase will travel further up the plate, while those that interact more with the stationary phase will stay closer to the starting point.
Step 5: Conclude that the separation of compounds in TLC is based on their solubility and interaction with the two phases.
