Describe the principles of how paper chromatography works

Paper chromatography separates a mixture of solutions by their various solubilities. The less soluble components have a higher affinity to the stationary phase (the paper strip) while more soluble components have a higher affinity to the mobile phase, or solvent. They therefore travel up the strip at different speeds, causing them to separate out.

RD
Answered by Rebekah D. Chemistry tutor

3762 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain the physical properties of metals


Describe an atom in terms of its sub-atomic particles and their relative mass, relative charge and its location


What are the differences in structures of diamond and graphite? And how do they relate to their chemical properties and uses?


What is the electronic configuration of Calcium?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning