Scientists use chromatography for purposes that range from fun to life-saving.
The scientific test ensures that the popular liquor Jägermeister has consistent levels of sugar. The same process is also used to create vaccines by allowing scientists to measure the components that make up antibodies.
Chromatography is typically run by scientists who use advanced lab equipment to identify the constituent parts of a substance. The process can be explained in simple terms, though.
Let’s explore how this chemistry laboratory process works.
Chromatography Basics
Chromatography comes from the Greek words of color (chroma) and writing (graphein). The term basically means to represent with color.
One Shared Aim
There are several forms of chromatography, and they all work on the same principle. The aim of the process is to understand which chemicals are found in a given sample. Chromatography transfers a substance from a solid to a liquid or gas.
Molecule Mobility
Based on the mobility and properties of the liquid or gas, chromatography can identify different chemicals within that compound. Some molecules like water, for example, have polarity, meaning they act like magnets. Other molecules vary in shape and size.
These differences allow scientists to separate any sample into its underlying molecules using the process known as chromatography. The technology can be found at chromtech.com.
Scientific and Commercial Uses
Chromatology has a wide range of uses and commercial applications. The process can be used to test for trace amounts of pesticides. The petroleum industry uses the tests to understand the various hydrocarbons found in its products.
Chromatography Methods
One common method for separating mixtures is through the use of chromatography paper. The constituent parts of a diluted substance will travel through the paper to varying degrees.
Lab essentials for this process are chromatography paper and a solvent. You can perform the following test on any plant material.
Boil the plant or leaves in ethyl alcohol. Be sure to follow standard lab safety procedures. Remove the extract and place it on one end of a strip of chromatography paper.
Then, suspend the strip in petroleum ether that contains 1.5% propyl alcohol. The paper contains polar solvents. The organic solvent will carry the extract up the paper.
The speed at which the extract and pigments move will depend on how it interacts with the two solvent phases that are present. Some substances will travel along the paper fibers while others will remain stuck at the base of the paper.
The substance will move more slowly when it experiences drag. You can measure the resulting bands on the paper. Have fun and experiment with different substances and solvents.
Learn More About Chromatography
Chromatography can be performed at home, in school, or in advanced laboratories. There are several forms of chromatography, but every test shares the same basic principles. The next time you fill up your car with gas or get a vaccine, you can thank this important scientific test for making it possible.
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