Question

Suppose three molecules are in a sample: A, B, and C. If the sample was separated using this experimental procedure, what order would the compounds elute (from first to last)? Molecule A is a nonpolar compound. Molecule C is a polar compound that also has hydrogen bonding intermolecular forces. Molecule B is a polar compound without any hydrogen bonds.

A. Compound C will elute first since it contains hydrogen bonds, followed by compound A and compound B will be retained longer since since it is polar.
B. Compound C will elute first since it contains hydrogen bonds, followed by compound B and compound A will be retained longer since it is nonpolar.
C. Compound A will elute first since it is nonpolar, followed by compound B and compound C will be retained longer since since it contains hydrogen bonds.
D. Compound B will elute first, followed by compound C since it contains hydrogen bonds and compound A will be retained longer since it is nonpolar.

Answer 1

The compounds will elute based on their polarity and intermolecular forces. Compound A, being nonpolar, will elute first, followed by B, which is polar but without hydrogen bonds, and C, which is polar with hydrogen bonds, will elute last.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine the order in which the compounds A, B, and C will elute from the experimental procedure, one must consider their polarity and the intermolecular forces present. Nonpolar compounds, such as molecule A, will elute first in a polar stationary phase since they have the weakest interactions with the stationary phase. Next, compounds with polar interactions but without hydrogen bonding, like molecule B, will elute due to their moderate interaction with the stationary phase. Finally, compounds with polar interactions and hydrogen bonding, such as molecule C, will be retained the longest as they have the strongest attractions to the polar stationary phase.

Given these facts, the correct order would be compound A (nonpolar) eluting first, followed by compound B (polar but without hydrogen bonds), and compound C (polar with hydrogen bonds) eluting last.