This hands-on Activity allows students to simulate chromatographic simulations using a grid, colored pieces of paper, and a six-sided die. Students observe the separation as it is occurring and perform experiments on flow rate, column length, and mobile phase composition. This Activity is best performed after the class has discussed the topics of solubility and polarity. It can lead to discussions as to how separations are achieved in column chromatography. As the Activity progresses and students make observations, the instructor can introduce terminology including resolution, dead time, isocratic, gradient, and diffusion. The Activity is well suited for the high school or college level classroom where chromatographic concepts are being introduced.
More Information
Citation
Smith, Charles A. J. Chem. Educ.2004 81 384A.
Keywords
Chromatography; Instrumental Methods; Introductory / High School Chemistry; Separation Science; Teaching / Learning Aids
Our Secondary School editors work hard to distill all the JCE materials to produce a fraction of particular interest to high school teachers. We call it CLIC.
In recent years we have worked hard to better match our advertisers with our readers. When shopping for chemistry education materials, visit our advertisers' WWW sites first.
Take JCE along on your outreach missions. Copies of the Journal, guest access to JCE Online, our publications catalog, and more are available for your participants.