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.