Quick revision of chromatography for JEE/NEET

 - Chromatography is extensively utilized for compound separation, purification, and identification purposes.

- According to IUPAC, chromatography is a physical separation method involving two phases: one stationary and one mobile, with components distributed between them.

- The stationary phase typically exists as a packed column (column chromatography) or other forms like flat sheets or thin layers adhering to backing materials such as glass (thin-layer chromatography).

- In column chromatography, the mobile phase flows through the packed column, while in thin layer chromatography, it moves via capillary action.

- Thin film stationary phases can be either liquid or solid, while the mobile phase can be liquid or gas, resulting in various chromatographic techniques.

- Partition chromatography involves a thin film of liquid stationary phase adsorbed on an inert support, with the mobile phase being liquid or gas.

- Paper chromatography, an example of partition chromatography, utilizes liquid in paper pores as the stationary phase and another liquid as the mobile phase. Separation relies on partitioning between phases and adsorption on the inert support.

- Adsorption chromatography employs a finely divided solid adsorbent as the stationary phase and typically a liquid mobile phase, with separation depending on selective adsorption on the solid surface.

- In chromatography, substances equilibrate between mobile and stationary phases, with slower movement correlated to greater interaction with the stationary phase.