How do the porous beads in the stationary phase of size exclusion chromatography affect the elution of proteins?

• A. They create a longer path for smaller proteins, slowing their elution.
• B. They create a longer path for larger proteins, slowing their elution.
• C. They have no effect on the elution of proteins.
• D. They create a shorter path for smaller proteins, speeding their elution.

Answer: (A)