Question

Predict the order of elution if you were to attempt to separate using column chromatography on silica gel and with a gradient eluent system starting with petroleum ether and slowly increasing MTBE % over time.

Answer 1

Follows this order: B=> A => C.

Step-by-step explanation:

NB: kindly check the attachment for the diagram of compounds A, B and C.

Elution is a very important concept in chromatography separation techniques. It deals with the use of eluent in the removal of an adsobate from an adsorbent. The principle behind Elution is just about how polar the solvent is.

So, in this question Compound B will go with the Elution first because of its polarity. Compound B has lesser polarity as compared to Compounds A and B.

Compound A will then elutes second because of its polarity too as resonance increases its polarity.

Last, compound C elutes because it has the highest polarity which is caused by electronegative atoms.