Question detail
If a compound has a retention time of 5 minutes in a chromatogram, what does this indicate?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Chromatography (A-level only)
Question
- A. It is the first compound to elute.
- B. It interacts strongly with the stationary phase.
- C. It has a low affinity for the mobile phase.
- D. It takes longer to separate from other components.
Answer
It takes longer to separate from other components.
Explanation
A retention time of 5 minutes indicates that the compound takes a certain amount of time to pass through the stationary phase, suggesting it interacts with the stationary phase and takes longer to separate compared to others.
Common mistake
Confusing Phases
Students often confuse the roles of stationary and mobile phases in chromatography, thinking both are the same.
Remember that the stationary phase is the substance that does not move, while the mobile phase is the solvent that carries the mixture through the stationary phase.
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