Why is equilibrium important in partition chromatography?

Points on equilibrium in partition chromatography:

• Partition chromatography is based on equilibrium distribution, where each compound establishes a characteristic balance between the stationary liquid phase and the mobile phase. 
• This balance is reached when the rate of transfer of a solute into the stationary phase equals the rate of transfer back into the mobile phase. 
• Differences in these equilibrium states cause components to occupy distinct positions as separation proceeds.

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