What is Analyte in Chromatography?

 Definition of analyte in chromatography:

An analyte in chromatography is the substance or compound present in a sample that is examined during chromatographic analysis. It refers to the specific chemical component selected for analysis and represents the target compound whose presence or composition is being studied within the chromatographic system. In a sample mixture, the analyte exists as the component of interest before separation takes place. The term analyte applies only to the substance under investigation and does not include the solvents, phases, or materials used in the chromatographic setup.