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IB Chemistry HL 2.2.10 Chromatography Questions

Use exam questions to calculate and interpret Rf or retention data and explain separation through competing phase attractions.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Chemistry HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Calculate Rf by dividing a spot's distance from the baseline by the solvent-front distance.
  • Explain separation by comparing each component’s attractions to the mobile and stationary phases, linking stronger stationary-phase attraction to less movement.
  • Use Rf or retention data to identify components and interpret how solvent polarity or phase interactions change their movement.

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Study 2.2.10—Chromatography conceptsOpen the corresponding Concept lesson for explanations, examples and exam connections.

IB Chemistry HL 2.2.10 Chromatography Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 6]

A student wanted to determine what colour inks were mixed to produce black ink and their relative polarities using paper chromatography. The student decided to use two different solvent systems for the separation, both a mixture of propan-2-ol and water. System 1 was 20 % propan-2-ol and system 2 was 80 % propan-2-ol.

Figure for Question IB Chemistry HL 2.2.10 Chromatography Questions question 1 — IB Chemistry HL

Question (a)

(a)

Calculate the retardation factor, RFR_{\mathrm{F}}, of the red ink in both chromatograms.

Table for Question (a) — IB Chemistry HL
[ 2 ]

Question (b)

(b)

Deduce, with a reason, which coloured ink is more polar, red or blue.

[ 2 ]

Question (c)

(c)

Explain how the separation of inks is achieved using paper chromatography.

[ 2 ]
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