Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) Study Guide
For Educational Reference Only - Not for Submission
Introduction to Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC)
Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) is a widely used separation technique that helps identify
compounds in a mixture. It operates on the principle of differential migration, where substances
separate based on their polarity and interaction with a stationary and mobile phase. In this
experiment, TLC was used to analyze compound movement, track reaction progress, and determine
the retention factor (Rf value) of two different compounds.
Key Concepts in TLC
- Stationary Phase: The TLC plate, typically coated with silica gel or alumina.
- Mobile Phase: The solvent that moves the compounds up the plate through capillary action.
- Polarity Effect: Polar compounds move more slowly due to stronger interactions with the stationary
phase, whereas nonpolar compounds travel farther with the solvent.
- Rf Value Calculation: The retention factor (Rf) represents how far a compound travels relative to
the solvent front.
Rf = Distance traveled by compound / Distance traveled by solvent front
Materials and Equipment
- Beaker with lid (TLC chamber)
- TLC plate
- Filter paper
- UV light source
- Solvent (mobile phase)
- Tweezers
- Capillary tube
- Pipettes
- Sample solution
- Pencil
Experimental Procedure
1. Preparing the TLC Chamber
For Educational Reference Only - Not for Submission
Introduction to Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC)
Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) is a widely used separation technique that helps identify
compounds in a mixture. It operates on the principle of differential migration, where substances
separate based on their polarity and interaction with a stationary and mobile phase. In this
experiment, TLC was used to analyze compound movement, track reaction progress, and determine
the retention factor (Rf value) of two different compounds.
Key Concepts in TLC
- Stationary Phase: The TLC plate, typically coated with silica gel or alumina.
- Mobile Phase: The solvent that moves the compounds up the plate through capillary action.
- Polarity Effect: Polar compounds move more slowly due to stronger interactions with the stationary
phase, whereas nonpolar compounds travel farther with the solvent.
- Rf Value Calculation: The retention factor (Rf) represents how far a compound travels relative to
the solvent front.
Rf = Distance traveled by compound / Distance traveled by solvent front
Materials and Equipment
- Beaker with lid (TLC chamber)
- TLC plate
- Filter paper
- UV light source
- Solvent (mobile phase)
- Tweezers
- Capillary tube
- Pipettes
- Sample solution
- Pencil
Experimental Procedure
1. Preparing the TLC Chamber
