topic 1a - atoms, elements, compounds and mixtures (7. paper chromatography)

Question 1

how to do paper chromatography

Answer 1

1) draw a line near the bottom of the sheet of filter paper using a pencil as pencil marks are insoluble and won’t dissolve in the solvent.
2) add a spot of ink to the line and place the sheet in a beaker of solvent.
3) make sure the ink isn’t touching the solvent you don’t want it to dissolve in the solvent
4) place the lid on top of the container to stop it from evaporating.
5) the solvent seeps up the paper, carrying the ink with it.
6) each different dye in the ink will move up at different speeds so the dyes will separate out.
7) when to solvent has nearly reached the top of the paper, take the paper out and leave it to dry.
8) the end result is a pattern of spots called a chromatogram