Required practical - investigating the composition of inks
Aim
To investigate how paper Chromatography is used to separate different substances dissolved in a liquid. can be used to separate and tell the difference between coloured substances.
Method
- draw a pencil line across the chromatography paper, 1 - 2 cm from the bottom
- use a pipette or capillary tube to add small spots of each ink to the line on the paper
- place the paper into a container with a suitable solvent in the bottom
- allow the solvent to move through the paper, but remove the The results of separating mixtures by chromatography. before it reaches the top
- allow the chromatogram to dry, then measure the distance travelled by each spot and by the solvent
Spots of ink or plant dye are placed on a pencil line
Results
Record your results in a suitable table. For example:
| Ink | Spot colour | Distance travelled by spot (mm) |
| Ink | |
|---|---|
| Spot colour | |
| Distance travelled by spot (mm) |
| Ink | |
|---|---|
| Spot colour | |
| Distance travelled by spot (mm) |
Analysis
- Calculate the Rf value of each spot: \(R_{f} = \frac{distance \: travelled \: by \: substance}{distance \: travelled \: by \: solvent}\)
- Compare the Rf values and colours of each spot in the inks. Describe their similarities and differences.
Evaluation
Question
Explain why the distances travelled by each spot were measured in mm, rather than in cm.
Measurements in millimetres are more precise than those in centimetres. They will give more precise Rf values.
Hazards, risks and precautions
It is important in this practical activity to use appropriate apparatus and methods. This includes the safe use and careful handling of substances. Eye protection must be worn.
Evaluate the hazards and the precautions needed to reduce the risk of harm. For example:
| Hazard | Possible harm | Possible precaution |
| Harmful solvent | Skin irritation | Avoid skin contact, eg wear gloves |
| Harmful solvent | Breathing difficulties | Ensure adequate ventilation or use a fume cupboard |
| Hazard | Harmful solvent |
|---|---|
| Possible harm | Skin irritation |
| Possible precaution | Avoid skin contact, eg wear gloves |
| Hazard | Harmful solvent |
|---|---|
| Possible harm | Breathing difficulties |
| Possible precaution | Ensure adequate ventilation or use a fume cupboard |