Chromatography is used to separate mixtures of dissolved substances. The different substances are carried up a piece of chromatography paper by liquid at different rates. An example of a mixture that can be separated by chromatography is ink in a marker.
Chromatography paper
Separated components
Liquid
Sample at origin
Time
EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION 17.2 What colours make up the black ink in a marker?
Equipment Scissors Chromatography paper Different brands of black markers
Pencil Crocodile clip
Beaker Water
Method 1. Cut the chromatography paper into strips. 2. Draw a circle on the chromatography paper with the marker being tested. 3. Place the chromatography paper in the beaker as shown in Fig. 17.9. 4. Allow the water to make its way up the chromatography paper. 5. Record the colours (in order) that the ink separated into. 6. Repeat steps 1–5 with different brands of black markers.
Pencil Crocodile clip
SAFETY • Clear up any spills immediately.
(Fig. 17.8 Chromatography
Chromatography paper
Beaker Ink spot
Origin
)Fig. 17.9 To find out what colours make up black marker ink
Water Start Ink End j Go to page 43 of your Experimental Investigations Log to write up this investigation. 168 Elements of Science