What is the Stationary Phase in Chromatography?

Definition of stationary phase in chromatography:

The stationary phase in chromatography is the solid or liquid phase that remains fixed in the chromatographic system and interacts with the components of a mixture during separation. It represents the non-moving phase that provides a surface or medium for interaction with sample components. In chromatography, the stationary phase is defined by its fixed position rather than by its chemical composition or physical form. The stationary phase determines the location where interactions with components occur but is not itself responsible for transporting them. The term stationary phase refers only to this fixed interacting phase and does not include its role, selection criteria, or effects on separation performance.