What is Gel Filtration Chromatography?

Definition of Gel Filtration Chromatography

Gel filtration chromatography is a separation technique that separates molecules based on their size using a porous gel matrix. In gel filtration chromatography, larger molecules elute earlier because they are excluded from the pores of the gel matrix. Smaller molecules penetrate the pores of the gel beads and therefore travel a longer path through the column. The separation in gel filtration chromatography occurs without chemical interaction between the analyte and the stationary phase.