key term - Chromatography

Definition

Chromatography is an analytical technique used for separating and identifying components of a mixture based on their different affinities towards stationary and mobile phases.

Related terms

Stationary Phase:

The phase that does not move in chromatography. It can be either solid or liquid supported on a solid.

Mobile Phase:

The phase that moves in chromatography. It may be either liquid or gas which flows through the stationary phase carrying with it different components of mixtures.

Elution Time/Retention Time: The time taken for each component to pass through the system under specific conditions.