In paper chromatography

Explanation

This is based on continuous differential partitioning of components of a mixture between the stationary phase and the mobile phase. In this type of chromatography, a special paper called chromatography paper contains water trapped in it which acts as the stationary phase. The chromatography paper spotted with the solution of the mixture at the base is suspended in a suitable solvent or a mixture of solvents. This solvent acts as the mobile phase. The solvent rises up the paper by capillary action and moves over the spot. The paper selectively retains different components as per their differing partition in mobile and stationary phases. The paper strip so developed is known as chromatogram. The spots of the sepa rated coloured compounds are detected. For colourless com pounds other methods like spraying a suitable reagent: are used.