> The stationary phase is powdered alumina or silica packed into a glass column
> The mobile phase (called eluent) is an organic solvent
> The mixture is added to the top of the column and allowed to run into the stationary phase
> Solvent is added to the top to wash the different components down the column
> This process is called elution
> The different components are collected in test tubes or flasks and then analysed purifying compounds from mixtures
> Column chromatography is a useful way of separating and purifying compounds from mixtures