2. If compound A is more polar than compound B, which compound will have the highest Rf value on a TLC plate that is eluted with ethyl acetate? Which compound will have the highest Rf value if the plate is eluted with dichloromethane

Question

Taryn

Chemistry

7 November, 13:41

2. If compound A is more polar than compound B, which compound will have the highest Rf value on a TLC plate that is eluted with ethyl acetate? Which compound will have the highest Rf value if the plate is eluted with dichloromethane

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Answers (1)

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Samantha Jensen · Answer 1

In first case when the compound is eluted with ethyl acetate, Compound B will have the highest Rf value.

In second case when the compound is eluted with dichloromethane, Compound B will still have the highest Rf value.

Explanation:

The retention factor is ratio of the distance traveled by compound and distance traveled by solvent.

In first case when the compound is eluted with ethyl acetate, Compound B will have the highest Rf value because Compound B is less polar and will move further on polar silica gel surface as it will not be able to travel on a polar gel.

In second case when the compound is eluted with dichloromethane, Compound B will still have the highest Rf value because dichlorometane is still polar but slightly less polar than ethyl acetate and compound B being non polar will travel faster.