Question

In a paper chromatography experiment, a sample of pigment is separated into two compounds, X and Y, as shown in the figure above. The surface of the paper is moderately polar. What can be concluded about compounds X and Y based on the experimental results?

1) X is more polar than Y
2) Y is more polar than X
3) X and Y have the same polarity
4) The polarity of X and Y cannot be determined based on the experimental results

Answer 1

In paper chromatography with a moderately polar paper, the compound that travels less (X) is more polar than the one that moves further (Y), indicating that compound X is more polar than compound Y.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a paper chromatography experiment where a pigment sample separates into compounds X and Y on a moderately polar paper surface, important conclusions can be drawn about their polarity. The separation indicates differing affinities towards the polar paper (stationary phase) and the solvent used (mobile phase). Since the paper is moderately polar, compounds that are more polar will have a stronger interaction with the paper and thus move less from the origin, whereas less polar compounds will move further up the paper as they interact more with the mobile phase.

Given this information, if compound X is located closer to the baseline (origin) and compound Y has traveled further up the paper, we can infer that compound Y is less polar than compound X. This is because compound Y has been carried further by the mobile phase, indicating it has a smaller affinity for the stationary phase (the polar paper) as compared to compound X. Therefore, the correct conclusion is that compound X is more polar than compound Y.