Final answer:
The application of thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and lab 3b differ in the method of sample application. In TLC, the sample is applied as a narrow band at the bottom of a thin layer of adsorbent material, while in lab 3b, the sample is introduced at the top of a column and moves down, separating into bands.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between the application of thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and lab 3b is in the method of sample application. In lab 3b, a liquid-solid column chromatography technique is used, where the sample is introduced at the top of the column and moves down, separating into individual solute bands. On the other hand, in TLC, the sample is applied as a narrow band at the bottom of a thin layer of adsorbent material, such as silica gel or alumina, on a sheet of glass or plastic. As the solvent moves up the plate, the components of the sample separate into distinct spots or bands based on their affinity for the adsorbent material.