Chromatography Definition and Examples

Chromatography is a group of laboratory techniques used to separate the components of a mixture by passing the mixture through a stationary phase. Typically, the sample is suspended in the liquid or gas phase and is separated or identified based on how it flows through or around a liquid or solid phase. Types of Chromatography The two broad categories of chromatography are liquid chromatography (LC) and gas chromatography (GC). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), size exclusion chromatography, and supercritical fluid chromatography are some types of liquid chromatography. Examples of other types of chromatography include ion-exchange, resin, and paper chromatography. Uses of Chromatography Chromatography is used primarily to separate components of a mixture so that they can be identified or collected. It can be a useful diagnostic technique or part of a purification scheme.