Question

discuss the theory behind then layer chromatography (TLC)

Answer 1

Thin layer chromatography(TLC) is a technique used to separate and identify compounds of interest.

A TLC plate is made up of a thin layer of silica adhered to glass or aluminum for support. The silica gel acts as the stationary phase

and the solvent mixture acts as the mobile phase.

In the ideal solvent system the compounds of interest are soluble to different degrees. Separation results from the partition equilibrium of the components in the mixture is the main theory involved in this.