Paper Chromatography
This page focuses on paper chromatography, an important technique for separating mixtures of soluble substances, which is a key topic in Edexcel Chemistry GCSE separating and purifying substances.
Paper Chromatography Process
The text explains the application of paper chromatography:
Definition: Paper chromatography is used to separate mixtures of soluble substances, often colored substances such as inks, food colorings, and dyes.
The process is described in three steps:
- The ethanol and water solution is heated.
- As the paper is lowered into the solvent, some of the dye spreads up the paper.
- The paper absorbs the solvent, and the dye spreads further up the paper.
A diagram illustrates the setup, showing the solvent, pencil line, and progression of the dye up the paper.
Interpretation of a Chromatogram
The page explains how to interpret chromatography results:
Highlight: A pure substance produces one spot on the chromatogram, while an impure substance produces two or more spots.
The text introduces two important concepts in chromatography:
Vocabulary:
• Stationary Phase: The paper that does not move e.g.,chromatographypaper
• Mobile Phase: The solvent that moves through the paper, carrying different substances with it
Comparing Substances
The page provides criteria for comparing substances using chromatography:
Highlight: Two substances can be the same if:
• They produce the same number of spots and match in color
• They have the same Rf Value distancetraveledbysubstance/distancetraveledbysolvent
This information is crucial for students studying mixtures BBC Bitesize Edexcel and preparing for related exam questions.