Forces that act on solute and stationary phase in adsorption chromatography
There are several forces that act on the solute and the stationary phase in adsorption chromatography:
1. Van der Waals forces: These are attractive forces between the solute molecules and the surface of the stationary phase. These forces are weak and non-specific in nature.
2. Hydrogen bonding: This is a type of intermolecular force that can occur between certain solute molecules and the functional groups on the surface of the stationary phase.
3. Electrostatic interactions: These can occur between solute molecules with charged groups and the oppositely charged groups on the stationary phase.
4. Dipole-dipole interactions: These occur between solute molecules with permanent dipoles and the polar groups on the surface of the stationary phase.
5. Steric hindrance: This is a result of the size and shape of the solute molecule. If the solute molecule is too large or has an irregular shape, it may not be able to access certain areas of the stationary phase.
6. Capillary action: This is a physical force that allows the solvent to be drawn up the chromatography matrix, carrying the solute molecules with it.
These forces collectively contribute to the retention and separation of solute molecules in adsorption chromatography.