How do different affinities of components for the mobile and stationary phases result in separation during column chromatography?

• A. Components with higher affinity for the stationary phase move slower, allowing separation.
• B. Components with higher affinity for the mobile phase move slower, allowing separation.
• C. Components with higher affinity for the stationary phase move faster, allowing separation.
• D. Components with equal affinity for both phases move at the same speed, preventing separation.

Answer: (A)