Practical investigations
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Why are silica gel plates with a backing of aluminium used instead of the normal chromatography paper for vinegar investigations?
Igloo replies
Using chromatography paper isn’t “normal” when carrying out thin layer chromatography. It simply serves as an inexpensive alternative to the use of silica gel on a backing of a glass or aluminium. Silica gel plates are more robust than paper and I wouldn’t be surprised to find that silica gel generally gives a better separation of the components than “chromatography paper”.
Risk assessment
Before attempting any practical work based on the advice and suggestions on this website, you must do the following. Identify any hazards, assess the risks from these hazards, and then decide appropriate control measures to reduce the risks. You must have these approved by those in authority in your school or college laboratory. Do not rely on what is said on this website.
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updated: 19 January 2005
