Question

Paper chromatography is an example of:

• A. Adsorption chromatography
• B. Partition chromatography
• C. Thin layer chromatography
• D. Column chromatography

Hint:

Paper Chromatography is a type of partition chromatography. Chromatography paper contains water trapped in it, which acts as the stationary phase. The paper selectively retains different components according to their differing partition in two phases.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Paper chromatography is an analytical technique used to separate colored chemicals or substances. It is considered an example of partition chromatography. Let us understand why this is the correct categorization by exploring the concepts and reasoning involved.

• Partition Chromatography: In this type of chromatography, the separation of components occurs due to their differential solubility in the stationary and mobile phases. Paper chromatography fits into this category because the stationary phase and mobile phase have differing affinities for the substances, leading to their separation. The stationary phase in paper chromatography is water trapped in the fibers of the paper, while the mobile phase is a solvent (or mixture of solvents) that travels up the paper by capillary action. This causes the substances to partition between these phases, resulting in separation.
• Other Types Explained:
  • Adsorption Chromatography: This involves the adhesion of component molecules onto the surface of the stationary phase. Paper chromatography, however, relies largely on solubility and partitioning rather than adsorption.
  • Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC): In TLC, a thin layer of a solid adsorbent (commonly silica gel or alumina) is spread on a plate, and separation occurs based on adsorption. It is distinct from paper chromatography as it involves a solid surface rather than filter paper as the stationary phase.
  • Column Chromatography: Here, the stationary phase is packed in a column and the mobile phase is poured down the column. This technique is significantly different in both setup and underlying separation mechanism compared to paper chromatography.

Therefore, based on the explanation above, the correct answer to the question "Paper chromatography is an example of:" is Partition chromatography.