Mass Transfer Resistance
Mass transfer resistance in chromatography happens when analyte molecules move too slowly between the mobile phase and stationary phase, creating delayed equilibrium, uneven travel speeds, and broader chromatographic peaks. Slow Phase Movement Mass transfer resistance begins when analyte molecules do not move quickly enough between the mobile phase and stationary phase. Some molecules continue moving with the mobile phase, while others remain longer in the stationary phase. This uneven phase movement spreads the sample band during separation. Mobile Phase Delay When molecules stay longer in the mobile phase, they move forward with the flowing solvent or gas. Other molecules may transfer into the stationary phase at a different rate. This difference creates unequal movement within the same sample band and increases band width inside the column. Stationary Phase Delay Some analyte molecules remain in the stationary phase longer than others. These molecules move more slowly throu...