Multiple choice

Which of the following methods of separation contains a stationary phase and a mobile phase?

  1. Crystallisation

  2. Centrifugation

  3. Chromatography

  4. Distillation

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Chromatography is a method in which sample extract being dissolved in a mobile phase. The mobile phase is then forced through an immobile, immiscible stationary phase. The phases are chosen such that components of the sample have differing solubilities in each phase. A component which is quite soluble in the stationary phase will take longer to travel through it than a component which is not very soluble in the stationary phase, but very soluble in the mobile phase. As a result of these differences in mobilities, sample components will become separated from each other as they travel through the stationary phase.