Paper Chromatography Basics

What is the main purpose of paper chromatography?

• To walk the dog

• To watch TV

• To separate and analyze different components of a mixture

• To bake cookies

How does paper chromatography separate dissolved substances?

• By using heat to evaporate the substances at different rates

• Based on the differential affinities of substances for the paper and the solvent, causing them to move at different rates and separate on the paper.

• By physically filtering the substances through the paper

• By relying on the color of the substances to separate them

Explain the concept of chromatograms in paper chromatography.

• Chromatograms are the chemicals used to color the paper strip in chromatography.

• Chromatograms are the lines drawn on the paper strip to guide the separation process.

• Chromatograms in paper chromatography are the patterns or bands formed on the paper strip as substances separate based on their affinity to the mobile and stationary phases.

• Chromatograms refer to the process of heating the paper strip to reveal hidden substances.

What is the solvent front in paper chromatography?

• The point where the ink is applied

• The highest point reached by the solvent as it moves up the paper strip.

• The point where the paper strip is cut

• The starting point of the paper strip

Why is it important to mark the solvent front in a chromatogram?

• To add color to the chromatogram

• To determine the boiling point of the solvent

• To accurately measure the distance traveled by the solvent and calculate the Rf value of each compound in the mixture.

• To identify the compounds in the mixture

What factors can affect the separation of substances in paper chromatography?

• Type of paper, solvent system, temperature, pH of the solvent, concentration of the sample

• Number of people in the room, distance from the equator, favorite food

• Brand of the paper, music playing in the background, shoe size

• Color of the pen used, humidity level, time of day

Describe how to interpret a chromatogram in paper chromatography.

• Using UV light to illuminate the chromatogram

• Analyzing the separation of components based on migration distances and spot characteristics.

• Measuring the temperature of the chromatography chamber

• Counting the number of spots on the chromatogram

What role does the stationary phase play in paper chromatography?

• The stationary phase allows for separation of sample components based on their affinity.

• The stationary phase has no impact on sample separation

• The stationary phase speeds up the chromatography process

• The stationary phase prevents sample separation

How can you calculate the Rf value in paper chromatography?

• Rf = distance traveled by compound / distance traveled by solvent front

• Rf = distance traveled by compound - distance traveled by solvent front

• Rf = distance traveled by compound * distance traveled by solvent front

• Rf = distance traveled by solvent front / distance traveled by compound

What is the significance of the Rf value in paper chromatography?

• The Rf value determines the color intensity of the compounds

• The Rf value indicates the temperature at which compounds separate

• The Rf value measures the volume of the solvent used in chromatography

• The Rf value is significant for identifying and comparing compounds based on their migration distances.