Retention Factor

Definition

The retention factor, also known as the Rf value, is a numerical measure that describes how far a particular substance travels during paper chromatography. It is calculated by dividing the distance traveled by the substance by the distance traveled by the solvent.

Related terms

Mobile Phase:

The mobile phase refers to the liquid or gas that moves through the paper during paper chromatography.

Stationary Phase:

The stationary phase refers to the paper itself, which stays in place while the mobile phase moves through it.

Elution: Elution is the process of washing out or removing substances from a solid material using a liquid or gas. In paper chromatography, elution occurs when different substances are separated and collected based on their varying retention factors.