How does column chromatography separate compounds through differential adsorption?

Some points on column chromatography to separate compounds through differential adsorption:

  • In column chromatography, compounds interact differently with the stationary phase, and this unequal adsorption causes mixture components to migrate separately through the column.
  • Molecules forming stronger attractions with the adsorbent remain retained for longer periods, while weakly interacting molecules move ahead with the mobile phase.
  • Over the length of the column, this continuous difference in movement naturally breaks the mixture into spatially distinct regions rather than a single combined flow.
Also check out more details on importance of column chromatography to learn more about it.