How does paper chromatography work?

Answer by  zeeeend (68)

The capillary function of the paper allows it to pull up the liquid with. The dissolved chemicals each interact differed with the paper while being pulled up so they take longer/shorter to rise. It is important that you keep a eye on the highest point of the liquid once that reaches the top you cant compare the chemicals.

Answer by  fellwanderer (146)

Consider an ink spot on the paper above the water line. The paper absorbs water. As the water moves up the paper, it transports the mixture that is the ink. Because the different components of the ink have different masses, they are carried at different speeds so the ink separates.