Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Compound A refers to one of the substances or components being separated and analyzed in a chromatography experiment. Its behavior and movement on the stationary phase will provide information about its properties and interactions.
Related terms
Retardation Factor (Rf): The ratio used to determine how far each compound travels on a chromatography plate. It is calculated by dividing the distance traveled by the compound by the total distance traveled by the solvent front.
Elution: The process of washing or removing a substance from another material using an appropriate solvent or eluent. In chromatography, elution refers to when a compound is washed away from the stationary phase due to its interaction with the mobile phase.
Adsorption: The adhesion of atoms, ions, or molecules from a gas, liquid, or dissolved solid onto a surface. In chromatography, adsorption occurs when compounds stick to and interact with the stationary phase during separation.