Which of the following methods of separation contains a stationary phase and a mobile phase?
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Crystallisation
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Centrifugation
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Chromatography
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Distillation
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.