Chromatography Process Steps Explained
This question requires ordering the fundamental steps involved in a typical chromatography separation process.
Step-by-Step Order Determination
- A. Pack Column with Stationary phase: This is the initial preparation step where the column is filled with the stationary material.
- B. Inject Sample (Mobile Phase): After the column is prepared, the sample mixture is introduced onto the column, often dissolved or carried by the mobile phase.
- C. Partition/adsorption of analytes: Once the mobile phase starts flowing, the components (analytes) of the sample interact with the stationary and mobile phases through partitioning or adsorption. This is the basis of separation.
- D. Elution by mobile phase gradient: The mobile phase is passed through the column, potentially with changing composition (gradient), to carry the separated analytes off the column at different times.
- E. Detection and fraction collection: As the separated analytes exit the column, they are detected, and specific components can be collected in fractions.
Therefore, the correct sequence representing the chromatography process order is A, B, C, D, E.