Paper Chromatography

• What is paper chromatography used for?

  To separate mixtures of soluble substances, usually coloured substances e.g. dyes
• Why is a pencil used in paper chromatography instead of a pen to draw a line?

  Pencil marks are insoluble and won't dissolve in the solvent used in chromatography.
• How do we see the soluble dyes collected in paper chromatography?

  They are carried up the chromatography paper
• How are dyes separated by paper chromatography?

  The mobile phase (water) moves slowly up the stationary phase (paper) and drags the dyes with it.