Which of the following best describes the major underlying principle of chromatography?

• A. Separation of components based on differences in their affinities for the stationary and mobile phases
• B. Separation of components based solely on their molecular weights
• C. Separation of components based on their boiling points
• D. Separation of components by their ability to form covalent bonds with the stationary phase

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chromatography is a technique used to separate mixtures into their individual components.
2. Recognize that the separation in chromatography occurs because different components interact differently with two phases: the stationary phase (which does not move) and the mobile phase (which moves through or over the stationary phase).
3. Know that components with a higher affinity for the stationary phase will move more slowly, while those with a higher affinity for the mobile phase will move faster.
4. Realize that this difference in affinities causes the components to separate as they travel through the system.
5. Conclude that the major underlying principle of chromatography is the separation of components based on differences in their affinities for the stationary and mobile phases.