Chromatography

Key Stage 3

This picture shows a chromatogram made in a chromatography experiment.

Chromatography is a method used to separate and identify different solutes found in a solution.

When more than one solute is dissolved in a solvent chromatography can be used to separate them.

Chromatography experiments are often done with colourful solutes which can be seen easily.


This diagram shows how black ink is made of three different inks in solution.


1. Draw a line across a piece of chromatograph paper. 2. Place a dot of ink on the line. 3. Hang the paper so that it touches the water but do not let the ink go below the water line. 4. Allow the water to rise up the paper. 5. Once the water stops rising up the paper observe the ink to see if any colours have separated.